What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Appointment

skeleton-41547_1280Making the decision to go to the chiropractor is an amazing decision that sets you on a journey to health and wellness in its most natural form. Whatever symptoms you’re experiencing that are bringing you to this choice, you can be sure your chiropractor will work with you to relieve them as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Going to the chiropractor for the first time can also be a little scary if you don’t know what to expect. Fear not, spine lovers, here are a few things you can expect at your first chiropractic appointment.

A Sit-Down with the Doc

While you’re waiting to see your doctor, this is the perfect time to take inventory of the office. The receptionist should be friendly and warm while kindly asking you to fill out some forms. The office should be clean and open. The wait time shouldn’t take too long either. These are all good things to stay alert for while you’re waiting for your sit-down with the doc.

When you do actually see the doctor, he or she will want to review your medical history with you and discuss the problem that’s bringing you to chiropractic care. If you don’t have an ailment that’s bringing you in and rather just want to do a good thing for your spine, that’s awesome! Be totally open about your medical history with your chiropractor. The more he or she knows, the better they can help you. Any past surgeries, illnesses, or medications should be mentioned. Dr. Gil Kentof of the Dr. Gil Center for Back, Neck, and Chronic Pain Relief in Franklin, Tennessee explains the how chiropractors can treat a wide variety of ailments. “Realize, also, that most chiropractors are trained to treat not only spinal disorders, but other joint problems as well. Conditions such as tendinitis, wrist pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, hip pain, and joint stiffness can be treated successfully with chiropractic care.”

A Thorough Exam

Your chiropractor will then want to examine you. This exam should take place in a private exam room away from other patients or foot traffic. Your doctor will probably put you through some weird maneuvers and press on things and ask if they hurt. If you’re concerned about x-rays, you can discuss this with the chiropractor. You will then have an examination of your joints, hip flexors, spine, neck and posture. This exam will help your chiropractor determine the extent of your problem and how best to treat it.

An Adjustment

Whether or not you want to get an adjustment the same day as your exam is up to you. Sometimes it may depend on what your x-rays reveal and other factors. If your chiropractor offers you an adjustment the same day and you feel ready, go for it!

Your chiropractor should discuss with you what’s going to happen during the adjustment and how you’ll feel afterwards. A good chiropractor will never just adjust you without explaining the procedure to you and asking if you’re comfortable with it. While being adjusted is minimally invasive, you may experience a little muscle soreness. This is normal as your spine and muscles adapt to the new and correct alignment.

Getting chiropractic adjustments can be beneficial for so many areas of your health, so congratulations on making an appointment and best of luck. Keep in mind that your chiropractor has your best interests in mind, so be open and prepared for your appointment.