Patients who are having their first chiropractic adjustment may have a lot of questions. They may be concerned about the types of methods that are used in chiropractic care. Patients often express worry and anxiety that is usually due to the lack of patient education about the treatments. The following information prepares you for what happens during a chiropractic adjustment.
Medical Background
A first time appointment with a chiropractor usually begins with a consultation. The doctor will give you a form to complete. This form will be used to collect information about your medical history. You can also list current symptoms you are experiencing. The medical background form may include the following questions.
- When did you begin to notice the pain/discomfort/soreness?
- How did the pain/discomfort/soreness start?
- Do certain actions ease the pain or make it more intense?
The purpose of filling out the medical background form is to provide the chiropractor with necessary information. The doctor will use this information to determine how serious your condition may be. The information provided will also help the chiropractor determine the type of treatment you should receive if any during your first chiropractic adjustment.
The Physical Exam During First Chiropractic Adjustment
Following the completion of the medical background information form, you will undergo a thorough physical exam. Basic procedures include checking your reflexes, temperature, respiration and pulse. The doctor may perform other tests during this time.
During this exam, the chiropractor will test the range of motion and muscle strength in the area where you are experiencing pain or soreness.
Diagnosis
The chiropractor will diagnose your condition through a series of tests. These tests may include x-rays and MRI’s. Once the chiropractor has collected all of this information, they will make a diagnosis based on the findings. The chiropractor will decide if the patient should continue with chiropractic care or if the patient should use other forms of therapy for treatment.
The first chiropractic adjustment you have should not last for more than an hour. Depending on the severity of your problem, the chiropractor may start your first treatment during this time. Short term treatments may be prescribed for those who have minor discomfort while long term treatments may be best for those who want to restore their health.
Dr. Renee White is a chiropractor at Champion Chiropractic in Alpharetta, Georgia. She specializes in the Graston technique and Electric Muscle Stimulation. Request more information or make an appointment today.