There are many benefits to a chiropractic appointment. While lower back and sciatica pain are reasons to schedule a visit, a chiropractic appointment will also help improve your posture, enhance your sleep, and reduce stress. Whatever your needs are, the first visit to a new doctor can be intimidating—even if it’s nothing serious. But initial chiropractic visits follow a routine; you should expect these four parts of your first visit.

Initial Discussion

As with any first-time doctor’s visit, you will go over your medical history with the chiropractor. This conversation will include any medications, allergies, or other concerns you have. In this early discussion, you will also disclose why you’re visiting, what discomfort you are feeling, and for how long. 

Physical Exam

After the initial discussion, the chiropractor will perform a routine exam, being sure to check any trouble areas you mentioned. He or she will check your range of motion, and muscle tone and strength to come up with an overall assessment.  

Additional Diagnostics

If the in-office exam isn’t enough, a chiropractor will run further diagnostics including an MRI or x-ray. However, this is not the case for every visit, and you may skip this portion altogether. 

Treatment Plan

Based on the examination, the chiropractor may adjust you on your first visit. The adjustment typically is not a painful process, though you will hear popping sounds as your body is re-aligned. These popping sounds are perfectly normal, and shouldn’t alarm you. If a one-time adjustment is not enough, your doctor will discuss a treatment plan, taking into account your lifestyle. Treatment may include at-home stretches or mobility—and potentially additional chiropractic visits.

If you’re nervous about an initial chiropractic appointment, you’re in good hands with Southgate Chiropractic. They are a family-owned business and member of the Kentucky Association of Chiropractors. Serving the community in Campbell County, KY, their team will create a safe and holistic treatment plan specific to you and your lifestyle. Visit their website to see what you can expect from a first-time visit, or call (859) 572-0029 to schedule an appointment.