What to Expect at Your Initial Visit
When you arrive at our clinic you will be greeted by our amazing reception staff who are always welcoming and happy to help in any way they can. When it is time for your initial appointment you will be shown to the treatment room.
An initial consultation will be one to one with your chiropractor, this is often 30-60 minutes long and includes a clinical history, a physical exam, a report of findings and if appropriate, chiropractic treatment. See each section for further information about what to expect at your initial consultation.
Initial Consultation
Clinical History
During the clinical history, your chiropractor will ask a series of questions to understand your presenting complaint. They will also ask about your lifestyle, past medical history, and family history. This information helps the chiropractor gain a clear understanding of both your current condition and your overall wellbeing. It also enables them to generate differential diagnoses and plan an appropriate examination.
Physical Exam
The physical examination is guided by the information gathered during the clinical history. Its purpose is to identify sources of pain and dysfunction. This may involve specific tests designed to rule in or rule out each of the differential diagnoses. Some tests may reproduce your symptoms, while others are used to assess your general health.
Report of Findings
During the report of findings, the chiropractor will explain their working diagnosis—what they believe is the most likely cause of your pain. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and ensure you fully understand your diagnosis. The chiropractor will then outline the management options and prognosis, as well as the potential risks and benefits of treatment. Your management plan will be developed collaboratively, and you will always remain in control of your care. Treatment will never begin without your informed consent.
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic treatment varies depending on the working diagnosis and the dysfunctional structures identified. Treatment is tailored to each patient based on their individual needs and preferences, in line with the chiropractor’s expertise. Treatment modalities may include manipulation, mobilisation, soft tissue therapy, and many others (see our treatment modalities section). Following treatment, the chiropractor will provide advice on rehabilitative exercises, self-management strategies, and lifestyle modifications.