Your 1st Visit
Wednesday 29th, March
PATIENT INTAKE FORM
This short form is designed to tell me exactly what your reason is for coming into the office. It will give you a chance to tell me what you are experiencing and also allow me to become familiar with your general health. This should only take about 5 minutes to complete.
CONSULTATION
The consultation allows you an opportunity to explain how your condition has affected you, and how it affects your everyday life. Key questions will be asked to get to the root cause of your condition. This is also a time for you to express what you expect of Chiropractic care, as it relates to your condition. Questions about your health are always welcome.
EXAMINATION
A thorough examination will be performed that is pertinent to your complaint. This will include: Chiropractic, Orthopaedic and Neurological tests. Postural analysis, reflexes and the overall mobility of your spine are some of the procedures performed. The core of a Chiropractic examination is to analyze your spine for vertebral subluxations (see Vertebral Subluxation under the "ABOUT" tab at the top of the page). I do this by applying pressure with my fingers to each individual vertebra in your spine, comparing mobility of the right side of the bone to left and from level to the next. This process is completly objective (not dependent on you telling me if it hurts), this is how I find misaligned vertebra, even in a newborn baby. Loose fitting clothes are recommended for examination. Gowns are also available.
DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
Please bring any CD's, reports or films of any prior testing e.g. x-rays, MRI scans with you on your first visit. I will review and discuss the findings of the reports, with you immediately. If you had tests performed previously but do not have the reports, don't worry, I will be able to obtain them. Updated (or initial) x-rays or scans may be indicated due to your condition.
REPORT
At the conclusion of your examination, I will provide a thorough explanation of your condition and treatment necessary for you to recover to your maximum potential.
TREATMENT
Now it’s time for your first treatment. This is called “spinal adjustment.” The goal of a spinal adjustment, is to restore normal movement of vertebra and pelvic joints, so that the nerves can heal; thus allowing the body to recover naturally. The spinal adjustment involves me placing my hands directly on the affected vertebra; pressure is then applied at specific angles to realign the bone. A variety of methods (Gonstead, Diversified, SOT, Thompson Drop, Activator etc), are available to help you. Some people prefer a gentle touch, others like a more physical approach. Together, we will find the most suitable approach for you and your condition.
RECOVERY TIME
Please see “Phases of Care”. Some people feel immediate relief after the first adjustment; however the symptoms may return the next day. Generally it may take 2-3 visits before you get some relief. The body needs time to heal, so lasting relief may take 2-3 weeks.
PATIENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Instructions on ice and heat treatments and rehabilitative exercises, will be recommended when indicated. It is imperative that you follow these instructions for a speedy recovery.
Everyday activities: lifting, posture and hoovering are among the many activities that may need to be modified.
Keeping up with the recommended frequency of appointments is vital for you to achieve maximum recovery.
We have no problem changing an appointment time if you have a conflict; however please ring at least 2 hours prior to the original appointment.
It’s important to avoid physical activity (e.g. exercise, gardening) for 2 hours after any treatment, especially the 1st visit.
