The first visit consists of several layers; the first being the forms that must be filed out before we can proceed.
The paper work can be downloaded above on this page, or you can pick them up from my clinic.
We will talk about your reason for coming in/your pain and we will discuss what brought it on, what you have been doing to control the pain, what changes you could be making to avoid aggravating/causing your problem, and what we can do.
At this point, I will perform an examination to the involved area(s). Consisting of evaluation of the soft tissue, your muscles and the surrounding areas, noting muscle tension and swelling; I will evaluate the motion of each vertebra, in the involved area(s), evaluating their motion or “their lack of motion.”
The next step will involve the further evaluation of your motion and the involvement of your nerves and the possibility of disc involvement.
I will explain the findings, if further evaluation is recommended such as x-rays or more advanced imaging we will discuss that, also. The need for further imaging is, usually, rare.
Upon your consent I will treat you and the area of involvement. I will explain what I am going to do and why.
The treatment will involve the relaxation of your muscles and the surrounding tissues, followed by the adjustment; once again I will explain what I am about to do and what you may experience.
During the muscle relaxation phase, we will also discuss the changes that you should make and what you should be doing to, greatly, improve your recovery.
After that, and of course throughout the session, you can ask as many questions as you want.
When all of that is completed we will discuss the frequency of care that is the best for you.
As you can see there is a lot to do and cover on that first visit.
