What to Expect at the Chiropractor

Whether it’s your first trip or tenth, you’re probably still learning something new with each visit.

In this article, we’ll give you the rundown of what to expect at the chiropractor.

 

It’s normal to be curious or even to feel apprehension walking into your chiropractor appointment, especially if this is your first time. But the worst thing that could happen is to let your anxiety keep you from pursuing treatment.

The first thing you should know is that chiropractic care is “hands-on and drugs off.” This means we prefer to take a more natural approach and allow your body to heal itself. However, if you are also seeing another practitioner, chiropractic care can work in conjunction so that you reap the benefits of both treatment protocols.

In this article, we’ll let you know what to expect at the chiropractor so that you can get the most out of your experience. And for those who have been to the chiropractor before, we’ll give you an idea of what your first visit to Oviedo Chiropractic will be like.

 

When To Book a Chiropractic Appointment

Before you schedule your first chiropractor appointment, you might be curious about whether you need a chiropractic adjustment at all. What does a chiropractor do that a painkiller can’t?

Unlike pain medications and traditional Western medicine, chiropractors don’t treat symptoms, they address the root cause of the problem. Chiropractic care is holistic in nature, which means that professionals in this industry focus on bringing your body back into alignment so that your body can heal itself.

Here are some signs that a chiropractor may benefit you:

• You’ve been in a car accident
• You’re experiencing chronic back pain
• You have limited range of motion
• You’re experiencing chronic headaches
• You sit all day at your job

It’s important to know that this list includes the most common ailments that send people to their first chiropractic appointment, but it is by no means an exhaustive list. If you are experiencing any pain, soreness, numbness, tingling, weakness, muscle aches, or headaches, chiropractic care is worth looking into.

 

What to Expect At the Chiropractor: Your First Appointment

Much like your first appointment with any medical practitioner, your first chiropractor appointment will consist of an evaluation and patient history. This information is necessary for us to properly diagnose and treat any conditions you have.

Your history will include the usual medical questions regarding the state of your health but will also include questions about your specific pain areas. You’ll be asked about any prior surgeries, injuries, and medications.

At Oviedo Chiropractic, you will complete your patient history through our online portal, which helps to cut down on the time you’re in our office. We know you’re busy!

If medically necessary, you will get an evaluation in the form of an X-ray. Not every chiropractor’s office does this, but we think it’s crucial to get an “inside look” into what may be going on behind your symptoms. Our clients are often surprised to see that there’s a physical cause for their pain.

X-rays take place in our office and you will be able to review your results instantly with one of our doctors. You can even have your X-rays emailed to you if you want; just ask!

 

What Treatment Do You Receive at a Chiropractic Appointment?

The chiropractic adjustment is the main focus of your examination. But what is a chiropractic adjustment?

Chiropractic adjustments use short, quick force to bring misaligned joints back into alignment to relieve pain, increase range of motion, or release pressure on nerves.

During your adjustment, your chiropractor will use their hands or specific instruments to manipulate the spine.

The manipulations will differ based on your problem areas and needs. You may also have different courses of treatments at different appointments.

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Adjustments require a lot of moving around, which can be difficult to do in a dress or tight jeans.

After your adjustment, you have the opportunity for some E-stim therapy. Small, sticky electrodes will be applied to your problem areas to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. You will direct one of our staff in adjusting the strength of the E-stim so that you don’t experience any discomfort.

 

Paying For Your Chiropractic Appointment

Before you leave, you will check out with the front desk and set up your following appointments. Multiple adjustments are necessary, as your joints and muscles become misaligned again. Your chiropractor will recommend a treatment plan developed for your body. Take a look at our previous blog all about how often you should get a chiropractic adjustment.

If you’re like most of our patients, you’re probably wondering about the cost.

Oviedo Chiropractic is in-network with most major insurance providers, but if you don’t have insurance, we have very affordable self-pay options for chiropractic and massage services.

 

What to Expect After Chiropractor Appointment

What can you expect after the adjustment? Will you be able to work, play with your kids, or ride a bike? Will I have to get a chiropractic adjustment again?

The answer is “Yes” to all of the above and your treatment frequency will vary based on your needs. Your doctor will let you know when the treatment phase has ended and when your maintenance period begins.

Expect some minor muscle aches later in the day, however. Your muscles and joints became accustomed to remaining in one location, and being forced into the proper position can leave them feeling a bit sore.

One thing to focus on after your appointment is drinking plenty of water. Water will keep the discs between your joints “plump” and proper hydration will help flush any toxins from your system.

 

Get the Relief You Need With Chiropractic Care

At Oviedo Chiropractic, we have seen firsthand the positive results that our patients have experienced as a result of their treatment. Our goal is to not only put our clients at ease, but to educate them on the treatment they are getting (and why they’re getting it).

Knowing how chiropractic adjustments help allows many of our patients to feel more at ease during their appointment, which can make the process more comfortable and effective.

Now that you know what to expect at the chiropractor, we hope to see you soon!