Chiropractic care is a natural form of healthcare that can lead to a long-term relief of pain, discomfort and improved mobility. Chiropractors also provide health care, not only for pain relief but, to promote a natural and healthy lifestyle.
Whether your reasons for seeking chiropractic care is for pain relief or an alternative medical care, you should be prepared for what to expect. Below are the things you should expect on your first visit to your chiropractor.
PAPERWORK. You will need to fill in a lot of required paperwork before chiropractors can administer medication, as with all other medical care options. This is for your safety as your professional will need your background and medical history. You will also need to provide your contact and payment information.
It may take between 10 to 20 minutes to complete all the paperwork, so your chiropractor may ask you to come earlier. But you may also opt to pick up the forms ahead of time and complete it at your leisure time, prior to your appointment.
EDUCATION. Though traditional medical care and chiropractic care share a lot of similarities, there are also a lot of differences. The main difference is that natural chiropractic care professionals do not administer medications and perform surgeries. They use diagnosable medical tools, such as monograms, x-rays, and MRIs, then perform manual therapy, which involves the use of their hands, precise force and training to treat joint and spinal problems.
Education is one of the most important factors since many people are unfamiliar with chiropractic care and have a common notion that rest, relaxation and pain medications are the best way to seek relief. This is, after all, the accepted approach for years. You will be educated by your chiropractor of the history and benefits of chiropractic care, as well as the differences in other medical care options. But most importantly, you will know why it is the best choice to seek chiropractic care.
EXAMINATION. You must first undergo a number of tests during your first appointment. This is usually a quick physical exam, which your doctor will take measurements such as your weight, height, blood pressure, temperature. If your doctor suspects that you may have an underlying injury, a sonogram, MRI, or x-ray may be used. Otherwise, your doctor will rely on their hands to determine the area causing your pain.
CONSULTATION. This depends on the length of appointment, preferences of your chiropractor, and the diagnosis. There will be times where your doctor will want to wait and review your tests first and will ask you to return for a second appointment. Other chiropractors can and will diagnose right away, and consult their findings and preferred treatment. More often, treatment may begin on the first consultation, which may involve a simple therapeutic massage or joint or spinal adjustment.
PICTURE TAKING. Many chiropractors choose to take pictures of their new patients to highlight improvements during the course of the treatment. Some may use these photos to highlight the benefits to new patients, though they will definitely ask for your permission first. They may also use these to determine the differences at the end of the treatment.
These are some of the things you can expect during your first appointment, though it will always depend on your chiropractic care provider.
Click here for a thorough walkthrough on what to expect on your first visit at Blue Spring Chiropractic. If you want to experience a truly exceptional first chiropractic visit and if you’re located somewhere near Bellevue, Federal Way, and Lakewood, set up an appointment with us now! Call (800)-719-4124 or you may check out our phone numbers for each location through our contact us page.
