What To Expect On Your First Visit
Patient Forms
Upon entering our office, you will greeted by Cindy or Ann. You will be asked to fill out our patient intake forms, so make sure you have insurance information with you if you will be using it. The paperwork provides us with general information about you and your condition. If the paperwork is not filled out ahead of time, please plan on arriving 10-15 minutes before your appointment to do so.
Consultation
Next you will have a consultation with Dr. Shier to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, and potential treatment options. Your first visit is designed for Dr. Shier to gather information about you, your condition and your expectations. This will help the doctor determine whether chiropractic care is the right choice for you. Please be prepared to answer detailed questions concerning your current problem, as well as your past health history.
Examination
After your consultation, Dr. Shier will perform a complete chiropractic examination, which includes testing your reflexes, your ranges of motion, as well as other standard neurologic, orthopedic, postural, and physical examinations. Nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
X-Ray Studies
Your specific condition may require us to take x-rays to make a complete evaluation. X-rays of your spine help us rule out more serious conditions and also assist us in developing the most effective treatment plan for you. Most people are amazed once they see their x-rays and can often immediately identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
Report of Findings
Once all the information and examinations have been performed, Dr. Shier will give you a report of findings to answer the three most popular questions:
1. Can you help me?
2. What do you recommend that I do to get better?
3. How long will this take?
After discussing your health history, your healthcare goals, examining your spine and reviewing any x-rays or tests, Dr. Shier will discuss treatment recommendations with you. If you have a condition that requires care with other healthcare providers, the doctor will discuss that with you. If Dr. Shier believes that chiropractic can help you, he will recommend a treatment and wellness program.
Treatment
Patients will generally be provided with their first treatment at their second appointment. This may include spinal adjustments, physical therapies, and/or soft tissue therapies. Treatment is an interactive process, so feel free to discuss the style of adjustment that you will be most comfortable with.
Wellness Program
Prior to leaving, patients will be instructed on a wellness program to be conducted at home. If you are in pain when you first come into our office this may include ice or heat application instructions, avoidance of certain activities or positions, as well as home exercises and/or stretches. If you desire an overall wellness lifestyle, our wellness team will work with you to create good habits and routines that support your success. Everybody is different, therefore everyone requires a unique and customized wellness plan. The foundation of our overall wellness lifestyle is maintaining a healthy posture and good spinal alignment, eating a healthy diet, taking supplements, keeping your weight under control and stress relief.
