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What to expect when you start

Chiropractic care at SFC

Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can be a unique and transformative experience, especially if you're seeing a vitalistic chiropractor.

Vitalistic chiropractic care focuses on the body's innate ability to heal itself and emphasizes a holistic approach to health. Listed below is everything you need to know and what to expect from your first visit; including the comprehensive initial assessment, potential use of X-rays, nervous system scans, regular progress examinations, and both short-term and long-term outcomes.

1st Visit

The Comprehensive Initial Assessment

Smiling woman holding a tablet in a bright office with a computer screen showing a spine X-ray and a wall poster about 3 T's of stress and trauma.

1. Detailed Health History

Your journey with a vitalistic chiropractor begins with a thorough review of your health history. This step is crucial as it helps the chiropractor understand the root causes of your current health issues and any underlying conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms. You will be asked to provide detailed information about your:

Past medical history
Family health history
Current medications and supplements
Previous injuries and surgeries
Lifestyle habits, including diet, exercise, and stress levels

This comprehensive health history allows the chiropractor to tailor their approach specifically to your needs.

A man standing behind a woman with braided hair, assessing her posture using a grid chart labeled PostureZone.

2. Physical Examination

After reviewing your health history, the chiropractor will perform a physical examination. This exam typically includes:

Posture analysis
Range of motion tests
Reflex tests
Muscle strength assessments
Palpation of the spine and other joints

The purpose of this examination is to identify misalignments, muscle imbalances, or other physical issues that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Chiropractors like Dr. Scott help patients achieve lasting wellness by amplifying their ability to heal & by promoting a healthier future for your family.
Chiropractor using an adjusting instrument on a seated patient's upper back in a clinic room.

3. Neurological Assessments

In addition to the physical examination, the chiropractor may conduct specific neurological assessments.

These tests help in assessing the function of your nervous system, factors contributing to your ability to adapt to stress and identifying any potential issues with your musculoskeletal system (aka subluxations).

Neurological assessments may include evaluating your reflexes, sensation, and coordination, scanning your nervous system and evaluating your Heart Rate Variability.

Man wearing a 'Hope Changes Everything' shirt pointing at an X-ray image of a chest displayed on a computer monitor in a medical office.

4. X-Rays (If Necessary)

In some cases, the chiropractor may recommend X-rays to get a clearer picture of your spine and other joints. X-rays can help identify:

Spinal misalignments
Degenerative disc disease
Arthritis
Bone spurs
Other structural abnormalities

Not all patients will require X-rays, but if your chiropractor deems them necessary, they will explain the reasons and how the images will aid in your treatment plan.

2nd Visit

Planning Your Chiropractic Care

Report of Findings

Based on the findings from your initial assessment, your Doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and health goals. This plan will outline:

  1. The frequency of your visits  
  2. The types of adjustments and therapies that will be used  
  3. Wellness recommendations  
  4. Expected outcomes

Your First Adjustment

Your 1st adjustment will typically occur during your second visit to the clinic.Common chiropractic techniques include:

  • Diversified technique (manual adjustments)
  • Activator method (using a small handheld device)
  • Gonstead technique (specific adjustments based on detailed spinal analysis)
  • Thompson technique (using a special table with drop pieces)

Personalized Recommendations

In addition to spinal adjustments, a vitalistic chiropractor often provides lifestyle and wellness recommendations to support your overall health. These recommendations may include:

  1. Exercise and stretching routines
  2. Stress management techniques
  3. Nutritional recommendations
  4. Ergonomic tips for work and daily activities
Outcomes & Expectations

Your Chiropractic Care Experience

1. Improved Mobility and Function

Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment and function to your spine and joints, leading to improved mobility and range of motion. This can make everyday activities easier and more comfortable.

2. Pain Relief

One of the most immediate outcomes you can expect from chiropractic care is pain relief. Many patients experience a reduction in pain and discomfort after just a few adjustments. Common conditions that respond well to chiropractic care include:

  1. Back & Neck Pain
  2. Headaches
  3. Sciatica

3. Enhanced Nervous System Function

By correcting spinal misalignments, chiropractic care can help to improve the function of the nervous system. This can lead to better communication between your brain and body, promoting overall health and wellness.

1. Preventive Health

Vitalistic chiropractic care emphasizes preventive health and wellness. By maintaining proper spinal alignment and addressing lifestyle factors, you can reduce your risk of developing chronic health issues and improve your overall quality of life.

2. Enhanced Quality of Life

Long-term chiropractic care can lead to significant improvements in your overall quality of life. Patients often report:

  1. Increased energy levels
  2. Better sleep
  3. Improved mood
  4. Mental clarity
  5. Enhanced ability to heal

3. Sustained Health and Wellness

The ultimate goal of vitalistic chiropractic care is to help you achieve and maintain optimal health and wellness. By addressing the root causes of your health issues and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, chiropractic care can help you lead a healthier, more vibrant life.

Long Term Health

Regular Progress Exams

Your Progress Examination Includes

  1. Postural Analysis
  2. Range of Mation Tests
  3. Neurological Evaluation
  4. Documenting Any Changes in Your Symptoms & Health
  5. A Chance to Celebrate Your Successes!

Regular progress examinations are a key component of vitalistic chiropractic care. These examinations allow your chiropractor to:

  1. Monitor your progress
  2. Evaluate the effectiveness of your treatment plan
  3. Make any necessary adjustments to your care

Patient Feedback

Your feedback is an important part of the progress exam process. Be sure to communicate any improvements, setbacks, or new symptoms you may be experiencing. This information helps your chiropractor make informed decisions about your ongoing care and ensure that your treatment plan is meeting your needs.

Celebrating Successes

One of the most important elements of every Progress Exam is the time taken to celebrate the milestones you've achieved (big & small)! By turning your attention to the improvements and the positive impacts on your life, it gets easier to notice and enjoy many of the short & long-term outcomes of your chiropractic care.

Dr Scott is a qualified vitalistic chiropractor who can guide you on your journey to better health. With his experience and your commitment to a healthy life, you can look forward to a brighter, healthier future.

READY TO GET STARTED?

Starting care with a vitalistic chiropractor is a proactive step towards improving your health and well-being. Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to your health by focusing on the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Doctors of Chiropractic can help their patients achieve lasting health and wellness, enhancing their quality of life and promoting a healthier future.