When you visit a chiropractor, he or she doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution to your issues. Chiropractors adjust every patient in a unique way that will address that individual’s specific needs. If you are heading into your first chiropractic adjustment, you may wonder what to expect. The following are a few ways your chiropractor may determine which adjustments to perform on your body.
Patient History
Before any adjustments take place, your chiropractor will have a discussion with you about your medical history and the symptoms you’re experiencing. You may be asked to fill out a form explaining your history, and you could also be asked to draw your pain on a body diagram. Some information you’ll probably provide your chiropractor will include what pain you’re feeling, when it started, where it is located, if it’s continual, if it started after an injury and what daily activities make it worse or better.
After this line of questioning, you’ll probably be asked about your family medical history and any pre-existing conditions you’ve experienced. Have you had previous injuries? Does your family have any bone disease history? Some of these issues could play a big role in determining adjustments.
Chiropractic Examination
After understanding your medical history, a chiropractor will typically perform a short examination. He or she will take a look at your reflexes, pulse rate, blood pressure, respiration and more. You might undergo some tests that assess your neurological integrity, the range of motion of the area for which you’re feeling pain, your muscle strength and your muscle tone. Your chiropractor might take a look at your posture, the way you walk, the way you sit and other similar observations.
Diagnostic Examination
Not every patient will undergo a diagnostic examination, but if your medical history and chiropractic exam reveal anything concerning, your chiropractor may have you get an x-ray, MRI or other lab test to rule out a more serious issue. Because of the nature of these examinations, they’re not common practice, but only done if the chiropractor believes the results will provide more complete information to help him or her determine safe and proper adjustment practices.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Chiropractic patients are all unique, as are their bodies and their problems. If you are heading in to visit a chiropractor, you can plan on a verbal and physical assessment so the chiropractor can determine an adjustment treatment plan. Contact a chiropractor for rehabilitation today to schedule your appointment to get back on track to better health.
