As a new patient, it is important to understand what you can expect from your first visit to our office, as well as what we expect from you. The doctors and staff at
Patient Intake
Upon entering our office our receptionist will greet you and welcome you as a member of our family. Depending on your reason for seeking our treatment (automobile crash, on the job injury, etc.) you will be interviewed by one of our staff to ensure a thorough and accurate health history, including the cause of your visit. This information will be presented to the doctors for your consultation. We ask a lot of questions to make sure we don't miss anything.
Consultation
Next you will have a consultation with one of our doctors to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, as well as potential treatment options. Your first visit to
Examination
The information from the consultation will provide us a direction when we start your examination. The physical examination provided by our chiropractors is very thorough and confirm the area of the condition, the severity of your problem and any limitations in your function. Every item will help the doctor define your injuries. Whether a procedure produces a response or not, it provides important information. Again, honesty and accuracy are important. Try not to exaggerate your pain levels, but also do not leave anything out. The more detailed you are, the better our diagnosis can be.
X-Ray Studies
Your specific condition may require us to take x-rays to get a full evaluation of a patient. X-rays help us rule out more serious conditions or assist us in developing the most effective treatment plan for you. Based upon our treatment technique, the x-rays also identify a direction for correction and also any possible reason why chiropractic may not be an option. Most people are amazed once they see their x-rays and can often immediately identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
Report of Findings
Once all the information and examinations have been performed, our doctors will spend about 30 to 40 minutes analyzing your results to determine the best recommendations for your specific condition. Therefore, we will usually schedule your report on the following day. During the report, we will provide you with answers about your condition, our treatment recommendations, the anticipated length for recovery and estimated cost for care. This allows you to make an educated decision about receiving care. If you have a condition that requires care with other providers, the doctor will tell you. We may also discuss some of the rights you may have as a patient in the event you are covered by insurance. Once you agree to our recommendations, then treatment can begin.
Treatment
Although, most patients request treatment on the first visit, we usually choose to wait until a full review of your findings can be attained. However, in cases of urgent care needs, we will try to provide some form of relief therapy until your formal treatment can begin. For those that are able to wait, the doctor will typically recommend home instructions until your next visit. This may include applying an ice pack, heating pad, extended rest, or time off of work. In addition to making you feel better, the doctor's recommendations are also important steps to proper healing.
Wellness Program
Although most patients seek treatment when they are in pain, many people have chosen a preventative approach to health by coming in before a problem occurs. If you desire an overall wellness lifestyle, our wellness team will work with you to create good habits and routines that support your success. Every body is unique and different and therefore everyone requires a unique and customized wellness plan. The foundation of our overall wellness lifestyle is maintaining healthy posture and good spinal alignment, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, taking supplements, keeping your weight under control and stress relief.