Brief Paperwork

First of all will be asked to fill in a health history sheet. This provides us with general information about yourself and your condition.

Consultation

Once the paperwork has been completed, your chiropractor will carefully listen to you as you go through your health concerns.

History & Examination

Next, the chiropractor will ask you various questions related to your condition. Your posture will be assessed from the feet up. Then 51 specialized kinesiological tests will be performed to determine which areas of the body are affected, and if there is a likely chiropractic problem.

If this is the case, further gentle tests will then be done to assess spinal motion, muscle strength, and nerve function.

X-ray Studies

Spinal postural x-rays will usually be ordered during the first visit, and viewed by the chiropractor.

These are done so that we can SEE the spinal posture and structures, as we don't like to guess with your spinal health care. X-rays help us to rule out more serious conditions and assist us in developing the most effective care plan for you.

The x-rays are made with full protection and the lowest possible radiation.

More detailed tests will then be done to complete your first patient visit.

ON YOUR SECOND VISIT                                      

Once all your preliminary tests and examinations are assessed your chiropractor will recommend a regime of care to help you achieve your health goals.

The results of your x-ray results and chiropractic tests, will be explained to you in a REPORT OF FINDINGS. You will see your x-rays and have them thoroughly explained, and you will be given a summary to take home.

YOUR FIRST CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENT

Once all the information has been compiled and explained to you, the chiropractor will give your first adjustment. The technique used will depend on your individual needs.

Regular visits, or "adjustments" do not take very long. Your chiropractor spends a great deal of time assessing your case in the beginning and so knows exactly what needs to be done on each visit.

MODERN GENTLE TECHNIQUES

Modern, gentle techniques such as the "activator" method (pictured) suit some patients. Patients may not "feel much happening" at the time, but these techniques are very specific and can have a powerful effect on the nervous system and spinal function.

All techniques are extremely safe. Chiropractic is ideally suited for all ages, from babies through to elderly people.

YOUR BODY'S HEALING RESPONSE

The changes that your body experiences during your chiropractic care will vary from person to person. Some people feel immediate changes with pain or symptom relief. Some people do not "feel" a difference straight away, and occasionally your body may respond in a way that has you feeling not-so-good.

These are all common, normal responses in the early stages of care, and can be compared to the discomfort of starting a get-fit program where the body is being asked to do new things. If you are at all concerned by any changes you are experiencing, please talk with us.

Many lifestyle stresses contribute to poor spinal function, and Chiropractic Works regularly holds spinal care nights where nutrition, exercise, stress management and work habits are discussed.