What to expect in a New Patient Consultation

Beginning chiropractic treatment may seem unfamiliar and even a bit overwhelming. However, we're here to guide you through what to expect, and to clear up any questions you may have about your initial consultation for chiropractic care.

What is a New Patient Consultation?

A chiropractic new patient consultation in a 50-60 minute appointment and consists of:

• history taking

• postural analysis

• spinal screening

• any relevant neurological tests

• your first treatment (where appropriate)

These assessments will give your chiropractor all the information they need to decide on how best to treat you.

History Taking

At the beginning of your appointment, your chiropractor will sit down with you and ask you some relevant questions regarding your medical and physical history. These will be questions like 'When and how did the pain start?' and 'What makes it better or worse?' This will help your chiropractor gain a better understanding of your condition and how to provide you with the best treatment possible!

Postural Analysis

Next, your chiropractor will begin an analysis of your posture. You will be asked to stand upright whilst the chiropractor evaluates your skeletal alignment. They will be looking for any misalignments, and considering how this might impact your overall health and fitness. They will also look for signs of muscles tightness and joint stiffness during this part of your consultation.

Spinal Screening

The next step of your consultation will be a brief spinal screening. Your chiropractor will ask you to lie down and will feel along your spine to assess its overall health, and to understand how your muscles and bones are functioning together. This evaluation will help your chiropractor determine how your spine may be affecting any pain you are experiencing.

Neurological Tests

Following the spinal screening, your chiropractor will conduct a few brief neurological tests. These include tests on your sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes and will help identify any nerve-related issues that may be contributing to your pain or symptoms.

Initial Treatment

In most cases, your initial consultation will also include your first treatment. This will be a chiropractic adjustment conducted by your chiropractor, during which they will focus on the specific areas that require immediate attention. The adjustment aims to improve alignment, relieve discomfort, and increase mobility. This will also give you a taste of what your future appointments will be like!

What to Expect After Your Appointment

When you leave your appointment it's possible that you may feel a little tender. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, and if you are sore you can apply ice or a cold pack to the area. Don't worry - it's completely normal to feel like you've done a workout at the gym! The muscle ache should start to ease after a day or two.