The Canadian Chiropractic Association shows us that almost five million Canadians visit a chiropractor every year. From back strain to repetitive motion injuries, arthritis, migraines and more, chiropractors have become a trusted care provider we depend on.
If you’ve never visited a chiropractor, you’re in for a treat. Many patients find they not only heal faster than expected, but also learn about their bodies while doing so. Every patient is different because everybody is different, so this article will explore what you can expect from your first chiropractic assessment.
WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE?
Chiropractors are doctors that use their clinical expertise to diagnose and treat issues affecting how your body moves. What makes them special, is they do it without medication or surgery. Their specific training focuses on diagnosis and treatment for mobility and pain relief. Patients can also be taught how to prevent future injuries through exercises and stretching.
Some chiropractors, (such as Dr. Hardick) have advanced medical training and experience. This means they are able to take chiropractic care to a higher level of wellness. Specifically, Dr B.J. Hardick received his Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences from Queens University, as well as his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Due to his experience in nutrition and natural health, he also specializes in ancestral nutrition, detoxification, functional fitness, mindfulness, and green living.
This means you can expect a lot more out of your chiropractic care, including your initial assessment at Hardick Chiropractic Centre.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR FIRST CHIROPRACTIC ASSESSMENT
Your first appointment is likely to be longer than most follow up visits. This is because we start with a thorough assessment of the patient’s history. We’ll ask you questions about your symptoms such as:
- When and how did the pain start?
- How does it feel: is it a sharp pain? Dull? Throbbing?
- How long does it last for, or is it continual?
- Are there activities or positions that make it better or worse?
It will also be important to collect a complete medical history, including pre-existing conditions or prior injuries. This is a good time to discuss other treatments you may be receiving from additional health professionals.
Everybody’s physical exam is different. We may need to start with testing your pulse, blood pressure, respiration, and reflexes. We’ll also examine the injured area to check your range of motion, muscle tone and strength. Some patients may require orthopedic or neurological tests.
An x-ray may be necessary to provide a detailed diagnosis. Fortunately, we’re able to do that in-house with our accurate and safe technology. This allows us to provide specialized care for your needs. Results can also be shared with your general practitioner.
FIRST VISIT GOALS
By discussing your medical history and completing the thorough physical assessment we will be able to:
- Identify and start to understand the cause of the problem.
- Start to build a trusting, therapeutic relationship.
- Discuss a recommended treatment plan, including how to fit recovery into your life.
It’s important to make a commitment to healing and improving your overall wellness. You may receive exercises or stretches to do at home to help correct your condition as soon as possible. Be sure to ask questions throughout the assessment, and during your treatments. It’s especially important to make sure you’re doing your exercises correctly, so please don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect during your first chiropractic assessment, you can book your appointment here.
Dr. B.J. Hardick is a Doctor of Chiropractic and internationally-recognized natural health author and speaker. His health journey began as a child — alternative medicine is the only medicine he has ever known. In 2009, he authored his first book, Maximized Living Nutrition Plans. In 2018, he authored his second book, Align Your Health. An energizing and passionate speaker, Dr. Hardick shares his lifestyle methods to numerous professional and public audiences every year in the United States and Canada. His teachings encompass the principles of ancestral nutrition, detoxification, functional fitness, mindfulness, and green living.