If you have pain in your neck pain, back pain, headache, or other musculoskeletal issues, it’s a good idea to see a chiropractor for lasting relief.
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who can provide you with treatment for mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine.
If you have never been to a chiropractor’s office, you might wonder what to expect during your first time at the chiropractor. What exactly goes on during the appointment? And what will the chiropractor do?
Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect during your first chiropractic visit in Fort Worth, TX.
First Chiropractic Visit
Your first chiropractic visit can be as short as 15 minutes to as long as an hour or more. Your first appointment with a chiropractor may include the following:
Initial Assessment
On reaching the chiropractor’s office, you will be asked to fill out some forms to provide your chiropractor an insight into your overall health history and symptoms. The forms may include questions about your symptoms. For example, in the form, you may be asked about the location and intensity of your pain and if certain activities or things improve or worsen your pain.
You may also be asked to provide the detailed medical history of your family and the history of your past health conditions, injuries, and treatments.
Once the forms are completed, you will be taken to the chiropractor’s office. Your chiropractor will discuss your symptoms with you, ask questions about your symptoms and lifestyle and address your concerns or questions related to your symptoms.
Chiropractic Exam
A chiropractor may perform a physical exam to determine exactly what issue you are facing. This physical exam will be focused on the areas of the complaint.
If needed, you may be asked to move in a specific manner. Posture and gate analysis may also be a part of your initial chiropractic exam.
Diagnostic Tests
To reach a diagnosis, your chiropractor may recommend general tests, such as respiration, pulse, blood pressure, reflexes, orthopedic, and neurological tests. Overall, the tests are ordered to assess the range of motion of the affected part, muscle tone and strength, and neurological integrity.
The chiropractor may also order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs. These diagnostic studies reveal pathologies and identify structural abnormalities to help your chiropractor more accurately diagnose your condition.
Chiropractic Treatment Plan
On reaching a diagnosis, a chiropractor will develop a treatment plan. Rest assured, your chiropractor will consider everything – from your family history and lifestyle to your recent injury or condition – before devising a plan.
They may also establish specific goals for your tailored treatment. These goals can be short-term goals, such as pain relief and muscle balance, and long-term goals, such as restoring function independence.
The treatment plan may include the following:
- Spinal manipulation
- Spinal mobilization
- Strengthening and/or stretching exercises
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS)
- Cervical traction
- Patient Education
Depending on your condition, your chiropractor may perform some of these treatments during the first appointment.
Chiropractor in Fort Worth, TX
If you have pain in your neck or back and are actively looking for a chiropractor,look no further. At Texas Medical Institute in Fort Worth, Texas, we have highly skilled and trained specialists who are focused on providing treatment for your painful muscle and joint conditions. For years, our chiropractors have been helping patients overcome their mechanical disorders without relying on medications.
If you would like to know more about us or schedule a consultation, call us today at (817) 615-8633 or fill out our convenient online appointment request form.
