The first visit to any doctor’s office can be intimidating. At Keith Clinic Estramonte Chiropractic, we strive toward putting our patients at ease by being highly informative about our process.
Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) care for patients of all ages, with a variety of health conditions. DCs are known for their expertise in caring for patients with back pain, neck pain, and headaches, particularly with highly skilled manipulations or chiropractic adjustments.
They also care for patients with a wide range of injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, involving the muscles, ligaments, and joints.
Here’s a look at what you likely can expect during your first visit. A typical appointment consists of a consultation, chiropractic exam, treatment, and a follow-up plan.
Patient history and your symptoms
When you arrive, you’ll be asked to provide your medical history by filling out some forms. You’ll also be asked to provide the symptoms you have, prescriptions you’re taking, diagnoses, and any concerns you have.
Your initial consultation and examination
Before any adjustments, you chiropractor will discuss with you the goals and address any concerns and questions you have. If you’ve come to address pain, discussing the particulars about that pain will help your chiropractor understand what may be going on and what’s the best course of action for you.
For instance, you may be asked:
- Where is the pain located?
- How long have you had it?
- Is it acute pain or is it chronic?
- Is your pain related to a certain event? (car accident, a fall, sports injury, etc.)
Your exam may also include an X-ray to help determine the appropriate treatment plan for you.
If you’re there seeking general care, you and your chiropractor will discuss your goals and develop a plan to get you there. It could include a schedule of adjustments, at-home things you can do and other strategies that will help you.
Will I get an adjustment on my first visit?
There’s a good chance you’ll receive an adjustment during your first visit. But that depends on the reason you’re there and what the plan of treatment is. Every case and every patient are different.
For an adjustment your chiropractor will identify and repair any misalignments you may have in your spine. You may hear cracking or popping sounds during your adjustment, but that’s normal and it isn’t something you should worry about.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing for every visit to your chiropractor.
Moving Forward
There are several methods of treatment, depending on each patient’s situation. Some of the commonly used adjunctive muscle and spine therapies at Keith Clinic include:
- Ultrasound
- Electric Muscle Stimulation
- Traction
- Cold Laser
- Diapulse
- Massage Therapy
It’s important to know that nothing will be done without your informed consent and your privacy is held in the highest regard.
Here’s to your good health and we’d be happy to help you.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call a Keith Clinic Estramonte Chiropractic location or request an appointment online today.