1) CONSULTATION
The first step for a new chiropractic patient is filling out a complete health history form. Old injuries, chronic problems, and the patient's present symptoms are recorded on the form for study.
After reviewing the health history, the doctor meets with the patient to discuss their problems and determine how they can best be treated through chiropractic care. Prospective patients are questioned by the doctor about how the physical and mental strains of work, family, and their way of life have affected health by precipitating spinal misalignments. These misalignments, called subluxations, may cause pain, discomfort, and decrease function through subsequent impingement of the nervous system.
2) EXAMINATION
Orthopedic and neurological tests, which include reflexes, sensory perception, and spinal range of motion, are a regular part of the chiropractic examination, as are blood pressure, posture, body type, and dietary information. These factors help present a total picture of your health for evaluation with chiropractic care.
3) X-RAYS
A chiropractic physical often includes full length x-rays of the spine, an important innovation of chiropractic. These standing x-rays show the spine in its natural weight-bearing state. Subluxations are determined by careful analysis of the x-rays, palpation of the soft tissues of the spine, range of motion studies, and muscle testing.
4) REPORT OF FINDINGS
After the doctor has studied the health history and x-rays, he meets with the patient to explain the results of the exam. The x-rays are viewed and the spine and subluxations explained to the patient, including the recommended course of chiropractic care.
5) CHIROPRACTIC CORRECTION AND TREATMENT
The adjustment or correction of a subluxation is the means of care provided by the chiropractor.
The first adjustment begins to restore the vertebrae to their natural position.
