At an initial consultation with a Chiropractor you can expect to have a thorough conversation about your current situation and health history which is important to get to the cause of the problem and work out your goals for care. The Chiropractor will then determine which exams may need to be completed. These can include orthopedic and neurologic tests in the case of an injury, posture assessment, thermal and sEMG scans, and a chiropractic spinal exam.

The physical exam component of any Chiropractic visit may be made up of various exams depending on the situation. These may include orthopedic and neurological exams in the case of an injury, posture assessment, thermal and sEMG scans, and a chiropractic spinal exam. The exams will be tailored to your situation and are conducted to make sure you receive the best care possible. If you are in pain, none of the exams performed should worsen this.

It is recommended that you wear clothing that you can comfortably move in. For some procedures such as postural assessment you may be asked to remove footwear, and for thermal scans and x-rays you may be required to briefly wear a gown.  You may be asked to remove bulky items such as down puffer jackets. Regular clothing is not going to interfere with what your Chiropractor is able to feel when checking your spine. If you have any concerns for any reasons you should voice those to your Chiropractor so an appropriate option can be found.

Some practices have an x-ray machine on-site, while others may refer you to a local radiology center if x-rays are required. Chiropractors are qualified to take x-rays and to refer out for them, you will not need a GP referral. Should further imaging be required such as an MRI or CT scan, you will be referred on to the appropriate center. The cost of x-rays may be additional to the cost of regular treatments.

There are many different ways a Chiropractor can adjust your spine. One of the most common methods is called a ‘manual adjustment’. This simply means that is an adjustment of your spine which the Chiropractor does with their hands. Often, though not always, with a manual adjustment you will hear a small click or pop. This is completely normal. The first few adjustments can be different to anything you’ve experienced before, but your Chiropractor will talk you through each one so you know what to expect.

The two joint surfaces are slightly ‘gapped’ by the quick controlled movement which results in carbon dioxide bubbles releasing from the lubricating fluid of the joint. These gas bubbles stay suspended in the joint fluid, then return to the liquid state after a time. Contrary to the old wives tale, clicking a joint, especially in the precise and controlled way chiropractors are trained to, does not cause arthritis and in fact may help prevent it. Manual adjustments are a very safe and effective technique but not always appropriate given underlying conditions. Your chiropractor will adapt your care to suit.

Following your visit your Chiropractor may give you some home advice to help you get the most from your adjustments. It’s very common for people to notice changes right from their first adjustments and your Chiropractor will talk to you about this at the time of your visit.  If there are any activities you absolutely should be doing or avoiding your Chiropractor will let you know.

Results are as individual as we are, and while some people notice radical and immediate changes, others take a slower and steadier path to change. There are many different approaches to begin the healing process, your chiropractor will recommend what they think will be the best approach for you.