fbpx
Skip to main content
X-Ray baner

6 Tips For a Great First Chiropractic Visit

| Dr David Palmer |

6 Tips For a Great First Chiropractic Visit

So you have booked your first Chiropractic visit and now you want to show up as prepared as possible. Firstly, well done for taking this step, I am a firm believer that Chiropractic has the potential to change your health forever. Here are six simple tips to help you make the most of your first Chiropractic visit.

  1. Clothing

For the first visit to your Chiropractor, your best choice is to wear simple, comfortable clothing. Think gym wear or active wear. Mini-skirts, skinny jeans or stilettos are not always ideal. Most Chiropractors will have a change of clothes/gowns that you can use. So if you don’t get a chance to change into something more comfortable, just come as you are.

Your Chiropractor may ask you to perform certain movements to observe your range of motion. They will most likely also want to take a good look at your posture. So form fitting clothes that allow good movement are ideal. Anything too baggy or loose fitting may mask your movements or postural pattern.

Try to keep your jewellery and accessories to a minimum. These may get in the way, and if X-rays are needed, you will need to take them all off anyway.

  1. Prepare your medical history

Your Chiropractor will want a full understanding of your health status. They will most likely ask you about your medical history, even going back as far as your childhood. They may base their questions/exams/treatment largely on what you tell them. Take a few minutes before your appointment to make mental notes of any previous accidents, surgeries or health concerns that you may have had.

Try to keep your answers short and to the point. Make sure your Chiropractor gets all the important information that they need to fully assess your condition. “It is great when a patient can answer all the relevant questions with appropriate information.”

  1. Previous tests

If you have had any previous tests such as X-rays, MRIs or blood tests, please bring these results with you. They will not only give your Chiropractor more information, but may prevent the need for further testing. Your Chiropractor may make use of these test results in developing your treatment plan. If you don’t have access to your previous tests, then don’t worry, your Chiropractor will be able to refer you for any tests that are necessary. At Align Corrective Chiropractic we have our own digital X-ray equipment on site. We are able to take quick, efficient X-rays if need be.

  1. Medication

Make a list of all the medications that you are currently taking. Many medications have side-effects. These could potentially be related to your current lower back pain, neck pain or headaches. Your medications also give a good idea of your current health status.

Try not to load up on anti-inflammatories and pain killers just before your first visit. These can potentially skew the results of any orthopaedic tests that your Chiropractor may want to perform.

  1. Punctual

Try arrive at your appointment a few minutes early. This will give you enough time to relax and complete any required paper work. Chiropractors try their best to stick to a tight schedule. If you come late, your Chiropractor will either have to cut your visit short or keep the next patient waiting.

  1. Payment

Are you aware of your Chiropractor’s charges and payment methods before your appointment? Many Chiropractors require you to settle up front. Bring cash or your card, so that you can take care of your appointment there and then. Your Chiropractor may then provide you with a statement so that you can claim back from your medical aid. Should you need to contact your medical aid to find out if Chiropractic is covered, please do this before your appointment.

Well done on taking the first steps to sorting out your health problems. Your Chiropractor wants to help and wants the best for you.  Follow these six tips to make the most of your first Chiropractic visit.

If you are looking for a Durban Chiropractor and would like to book a visit at Align Corrective Chiropractic please give us a call on 031 562 9180.

 

Back to Blog