Seeing a new healthcare professional can be a very intimidating experience. However, if you know what to expect, you may feel more comfortable about the first appointment with your new Chiropractic Physician.
Patient History
As with other medical appointments, Chiropractic Physicians will begin by taking your patient history to become knowledgeable about any medications, allergies, or prior health conditions. This history helps the doctor learn more about what you came in for, what your history is, and make an initial evaluation of how to help.
Physical Examination
Your Chiropractic Physician then performs a physical examination, to include the assessment of spinal and musculoskeletal joint function. This examination focuses on evaluation of any joint pain, tenderness, asymmetry, changes in your range of motion, muscle tone and strength, posture, and spinal or other joint stability. In addition to a basic physical examination, x-rays or an MRI may be necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Conversation and Discussion
All of the above parts of your new patient appointment will help determine whether chiropractic care is the correct approach to your needs. Commonly, the Chiropractic Physician will review any and all medical findings with you and review the risks and/or benefits of any possible procedures.
Decision-Making
Through a process of shared decision-making, you and your chiropractic physician will decide if chiropractic care is the best treatment option for your health condition. If the results of the physical examination show that another healthcare professional would be able to offer better help, Chiropractic Physician will make an appropriate referral to that provider.
If you decide to move forward with chiropractic care, your Chiropractic Physician will establish an appropriate treatment plan for you, which will depend on the wants and needs required to correct your health condition.
While visiting a new doctor may seem intimidating, it does not have to be. The expertly trained doctors and friendly staff here at Ault Chiropractic are here to help you through the beginning steps of your outstanding patient experience!