What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Appointment
Many new patients are unsure what to expect during their first chiropractic appointment. Visiting a chiropractor is similar to visiting other healthcare providers. The office setting and intake procedure will be familiar while the chiropractic treatment room and process is a bit more distinctive. A typical appointment consists of a consultation, chiropractic physical exam, treatment and a follow up plan.
During the Consultation
An initial chiropractic consultation is quite similar to an initial consultation at your GP. It generally involves completing a health questionnaire and answering questions about your medical history. Typically, the chiropractor asks you to indicate where you are experiencing discomfort and will check vitals like your body temperature, pulse, respiration rate and blood pressure.
Chiropractic Physical Exam
The chiropractor will begin with a routine physical exam, then follow it with an exam that focuses on the spine and the soft tissues that support it, with particular attention given to the areas of complaint. They will visually inspect your body for spinal curves and other visible indicators of injury.
They may also conduct orthopaedic examinations, which are designed to detect issues with the spine, bones, joints and soft tissues including ligaments and tendons. An orthopaedic exam includes moving the joint and measuring its range of movement. Neurological examinations are also common. These assess the function of your motor, sensory and cranial nerves (such as testing your reflexes and testing for numbness).
The Treatment Process
Treatment plans vary depending on:
- Your general health
- The extent of your injury or irritation
- Your goals
- The condition of your spine as affected by age and previous injury
Treatment can involve chiropractic adjustments to the spine or other joints as well as physiotherapeutic muscle therapy, stretching, application of heat or ice, an exercise program and more.
Chiropractor Appointment Length
How long your chiropractic appointment is varies depending on the severity of your condition and how prolonged it has been. Most people’s first chiropractic appointments are around 40 minutes, while follow up appointments taking between 10 to 20 minutes.
What to Wear to Chiropractic Appointment
During a chiropractic appointment, you may have to lie down on a padded table, so your clothes have to be comfortable. The best approach is to go for loose, comfortable clothing or something that isn’t restrictive such as yoga pants, leggings, running shorts, etc. Avoid layers, ties, skirts and dresses.
Make an Appointment at Our Perth Clinic
For more information on our physiotherapeutic muscle therapy or chiropractic adjustments, read more about what to expect for your first visit. If you’re experiencing pain related to your spine, joints or soft tissue, make an appointment with our chiropractors today. To make an appointment, contact us online or call 08 9227 9341 today.
