Helping People Avoid Spine Surgery

What to Expect at Your First Chiropractor Appointment

After scheduling your first appointment for chiropractic near Naperville, you can look forward to rapid relief of your back pain without the need for invasive procedures. Chiropractors focus on holistic, non-invasive, and conservative approaches that take into account the patient’s whole wellness, rather than just his or her current symptoms. Your chiropractor will listen attentively to your concerns and questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs.

Medical History

When you arrive at the chiropractic clinic, your first appointment will proceed in a similar manner as any other medical appointment. The chiropractor will ask you to fill out some forms about your medical history. Disclose information such as your previous diagnoses, medications you might take, and lifestyle habits that might affect your wellness. Be sure to tell the chiropractor if you’re pregnant or could be pregnant during your consultation.

Symptom Evaluation

Your chiropractor will ask you specific questions about your symptoms, such as whether the pain feels sharp or dull. Describe how the pain first developed, how long you’ve had it, and whether it’s accompanied by any other symptoms. For instance, lower back pain may be accompanied by numbness, weakness, and tingling that extends through the buttock and down the leg.

Patient Examination

After discussing your symptoms with you, the chiropractor will perform a comprehensive physical examination including orthopedic and neurologic tests. This will evaluate any muscle tone deficits, strength and weaknesses and sensory deficits. You may be asked to move body parts in certain ways to allow the chiropractor to check your range of motion. The chiropractor may also check your neurological integrity and reflexes.

Diagnostic Studies

If you’ve already undergone diagnostic imaging scans such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, or X-rays you should pass these images along to your chiropractor. Imaging studies can be helpful in confirming a diagnosis.

Treatment Planning

Once your chiropractor has determined the source of your symptoms, he or she will provide personalized treatment recommendations. These may include a series of chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, or other non-invasive treatment modalities.

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