If you have never been to a chiropractor, it is completely normal to feel a little unsure about your first chiropractic visit. You might wonder what the doctor will ask, whether an adjustment will hurt, or whether you will be pressured into a long plan of care. Most of that uncertainty comes from simply not knowing what happens behind the door.
This guide walks you through a typical first visit at our West Omaha office, from the moment you call to the moment you head home. Every practice is a little different, and every patient is too, but knowing the general shape of the visit can make it much easier to pick up the phone.
In this article
Before you arrive: booking, forms and what to bring
Your first visit starts with a phone call. When you call, our team will find a time that suits you and answer any practical questions about location, parking or insurance. It helps to have a short description of what is bothering you so we can set aside the right amount of time.
On the day, plan to bring:
- Your insurance card, if you plan to use insurance
- A photo ID
- A list of any medications and past surgeries or injuries
- Any recent imaging reports, such as X-rays or MRI results, if you have them
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in. Athletic wear or loose pants and a T-shirt work well, because your chiropractor will want to see how you bend, turn and reach.
The conversation: your health history and goals
The most important part of a first visit is the conversation. Your chiropractor will ask what you are feeling, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and how it is affecting your sleep, work and daily activities. You will also talk about your general health, past injuries and anything you have already tried.
Just as important, you will be asked what you want to get back to. For one person that might be gardening without a sore back. For another, it might be sitting through a workday without a stiff neck. Those goals shape every recommendation that follows.
The assessment: how you move
Next comes a hands-on assessment. Your chiropractor will look at your posture and watch how you move. You may be asked to bend forward, turn your head or raise your arms. The doctor may gently feel the muscles and joints in the area of concern and check your reflexes, strength or sensation where it is relevant.
If anything in your history or assessment suggests a problem that needs a different kind of care, or if imaging would be useful, your chiropractor will tell you and help you take that next step.
Your results and recommendation
Once the assessment is done, your chiropractor will explain what they found in plain language. You should come away understanding what seems to be going on, what might be contributing to it, and what options make sense. At our practice that could include chiropractic adjustments, Active Release Technique, in-office physiotherapy or massage, often alongside simple things you can do at home.
Will I be treated on day one?
Often, yes. If it is appropriate and you are comfortable, treatment may begin at the first visit. If you would rather take time to think about your options, that is fine too. You are always in control of your care, and you can ask questions at any point.
If you are curious about what an adjustment feels like, our article Is Chiropractic Care Safe? covers the common questions people have about comfort and soreness.
Questions worth asking your chiropractor
- What do you think is causing my discomfort?
- What are my options, and what do you recommend?
- How will we know if this is helping?
- Is there anything I should do, or avoid, at home?
- When should I check in with my doctor instead?
What happens next
Before you leave, you will know what to expect next, whether that is a follow-up visit, a home routine or a referral. If anything comes up in between, you can simply call the office.
When to see a professional
Get prompt medical attention if you notice any of the following:
- Numbness, tingling or weakness in your arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain after a fall, car accident or other injury
- Fever, or pain with unexplained weight loss
- Pain that is severe, getting worse or keeps you awake at night
Contact your doctor, or call 911 or go to an emergency room if symptoms are severe or sudden.
How we can help
At Martin & Long Chiropractic, Dr. Leslie Martin and Dr. Robbi Long build every first visit around listening. You can read more about what your first visit looks like or meet our chiropractors. When you are ready, contact our office.
This article is for general educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have a specific health concern, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. In an emergency, call 911.
Sources
- Featured photo: Shixart1985, CC BY 2.0
- Spinal Manipulation: What You Need To Know, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
- Back Pain, MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
Have a question about your situation?
Articles can only go so far. If you’d like a professional opinion about what you’re feeling, our chiropractors are happy to help. Call us or schedule a visit.