What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your first visit is focused on understanding you — not just your symptoms.

1. Health History and Conversation

We start by talking. You’ll discuss:

• Your current concerns
• When symptoms started
• What makes them better or worse
• Past injuries or surgeries
• Work, lifestyle, and daily habits
• Health goals

This helps guide the exam and care plan.

2. Physical Examination

Next comes a movement and structural assessment, which may include:

• Posture evaluation
• Range of motion testing
• Orthopedic and neurological checks
• Muscle and joint assessment
• Functional movement tests

If needed, imaging or outside records may be requested before beginning care.

3. The Adjustment

Most patients can receive their first adjustment the same day (when appropriate). Adjustments are specific, controlled movements applied to a joint to improve motion and function. Our techniques are based upon exam findings and needs of the patient.

Adjustments are typically quick and well tolerated. Many people feel relief, improved mobility, or a sense of ease afterward.

How You Might Feel After

Responses vary, but common post-visit experiences include:

• Looser or lighter feeling
• Improved range of motion
• Mild soreness (similar to starting a new workout)
• Fatigue or deep relaxation

If soreness occurs, it usually resolves quickly and can be helped with hydration, light movement, and sometimes ice or heat.

How Many Visits Will You Need?

That depends on:

• Your condition
• How long it has been present
• Your daily stress and activity levels
• Your goals (relief vs. corrective vs. wellness care)
• Previous trauma and severity of trauma

Some people come for short-term relief. Others choose ongoing care to maintain movement and prevent flare-ups.

Final Thoughts

Chiropractic care is about more than “cracking backs.” It’s about restoring motion, improving function, and helping your body work the way it was designed to. If you’ve been dealing with discomfort, stiffness, or recurring issues, an evaluation can be a helpful first step toward feeling and moving better.



If you’re unsure whether chiropractic is right for you, the best place to start is a conversation and an exam with one of our doctors.