Did you know that 35 million Americans see a chiropractor? Chiropractic adjustments can be used as a pain relief treatment for a range of different symptoms. Some of these may include lower back pain, neck pain, and sciatica.
If you’re thinking about booking a chiropractor visit for the first time, you may be wondering what it involves. Rest assured that you’re in good hands. Take a look at everything you can expect from your first appointment.
Patient History
To receive expert chiropractic care, your chiropractor will need to find out your medical history. You may be asked to fill out some forms before your appointment. These forms may ask you questions about your symptoms, how long you’ve been experiencing the symptoms, and when they occur.
If the pain you experience is from an injury, it’s important to include this information. If you’ve found anything that lessens the pain, you should tell your chiropractor this too. Be sure to inform your chiropractor of any medications you’re taking and any allergies you have.
An Examination
At Ribley Chiropractor, you’ll be given a chiropractic exam. This type of exam can include general tests on your blood pressure, respiration, and reflexes. Your chiropractor will also examine the affected area.
The chiropractor will be looking at the range of motion in the area, along with muscle tone and strength, and neurological integrity. During your exam, your chiropractor may also x-ray the affected area to diagnose trauma, spondyloarthritis, or study a deformity that could progress.
Diagnosis
The combination of your medical history, exam, and x-ray will allow your chiropractor to come to a specific diagnosis. Firstly, your chiropractor will inform you of whether your condition can be treated with spinal manipulation. There are some conditions, like fractures, breaks, and infections that cannot be treated by chiropractors.
If you can be treated, your chiropractor will explain your diagnosis and recommend regular chiropractor visits with individualized treatment. In addition, you can take your diagnosis home with you and do your research into treatment.
First Session
Many chiropractors will begin treatment in the first session. In addition to your exam and diagnosis discussion, the whole session will last around forty-five minutes. A chiropractic adjustment session will aim to reduce pain and restore muscle balance in the short term.
In the long-term, sessions aim to restore functional independence so the patient can resume normal activities without any interference. Your chiropractor will tell you how long he expects treatment to last. For most patients, chiropractic treatments last between 4 and 6 weeks.
Your First Chiropractor Visit
Your first chiropractor visit doesn’t have to be a daunting prospect. In fact, it can be the beginning of strengthening your overall health. Your chiropractor will be willing to answer any of your questions and put you at ease at any point during your session so don’t wait any longer for the relief you need.
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