Chiropractic care helps to improve the range of motion of your spine and other joints, improving your mobility and your energy levels. Chiropractic can also help decrease muscle tension, lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and foster an overall sense of calm.
If these benefits sound appealing, but you haven’t been to a Chiropractor before, don’t worry – our team is here to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Here’s what you need to know before your first visit to a chiropractor.
Preparing for your first Chiropractic visit
Before your appointment, you may like to do some research on the chiropractor you’ll be visiting. Look up their credentials and reviews from previous patients. This can help you feel more comfortable and confident about your visit. You may also like to write down the reasons for your visit. Are you hoping to sleep better? Are you suffering from headaches? Or is it back pain that has prompted you to reach out? It’s a good idea to also note down any medications you’re currently taking or any healthcare issues you may be experiencing.
Our chiropractors take a holistic approach to healthcare, so the more information you can provide, the clearer the path towards wellbeing.
What to wear to your first Chiropractic appointment
Make sure you wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that is easy to move in. Your Chiropractic examination is likely to involve a variety of movements, as well as lying on your back, side and front, so comfort is key! And if your appointment coincides with coming from, or going to, the office, feel free to bring in a comfy change of clothes – perhaps a T-shirt and shorts – to get changed into.
What to expect during your initial consultation
As well as gathering your health and wellness history, your Chiropractor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your spine and posture. This examination will look at the functions of both your nervous system, including your reflexes, and muscular system, looking at strength, weakness, proper movement, and possible restrictions.
Based on your discussions and their findings, your Chiropractor will recommend a customised treatment plan for you. This plan may involve spinal adjustments, stretching, or other techniques.
If you feel comfortable proceeding with treatment, your Chiropractor will perform a series of necessary adjustments or corrections to various areas of the body. These adjustments are safe, gentle, low-force techniques to bring the body back to proper alignment and joint function. Alongside these adjustments, your Chiropractor may also use various soft-tissue techniques, such as stretching, to strengthen the muscles and treat the body as a whole.
What exactly is a Chiropractic treatment plan?
Chiropractic treatment plans are unique to each patient. Treatment plans will vary depending on your general health and wellbeing, the extent of your injury or pain, your goals, and the condition of your spine as affected by age, lifestyle and any previous injuries.
Treatment may involve a combination of Chiropractic adjustments, stretching, the application of heat or cold packs, an exercise program, and more.
Common concerns when visiting a Chiropractor
Some people may be nervous about seeing a Chiropractor, especially if they’ve never been before. However, Chiropractors are trained professionals who use gentle, non-invasive techniques to help alleviate discomfort and pain.
If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to bring them up with your Chiropractor during your initial consultation. We see Chiropractic care as a joint process between practitioner and patient, with your health and happiness as our highest priority.
Post-adjustment care tips
Your Chiropractor will give you advice during your appointment about your best post-adjustment plan of attack. The main things to remember, however, are to ensure you stay hydrated, enjoy some light movement/exercise (but definitely don’t overdo things), and listen to your body (you might feel like taking a warm bath, for instance, or heading out for a walk).
Discuss your treatment needs with a Northcote Chiropractor
We’re proud to serve the communities of Northcote, Carlton, Thornbury, Fairfield, Alphington, Abbotsford, Ivanhoe, Brunswick, Fitzroy, Eaglemont and surrounds. If you’re looking for more information or to book your first Chiropractic consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Bookings can be made via our simple online booking system, and we’re also available via phone or email if you’d like to chat further.
?108 High Street, Northcote, 3070
☎️ (03) 8899 6370? chris@northcotehw.com.au
