Your first chiropractic appointment should help explain what might be contributing to your symptoms and whether chiropractic care is appropriate. Expect a conversation about your health and an examination, followed by a discussion of the findings and proposed care. You should have time to ask questions before deciding what to agree to.
What will the chiropractor ask about?
Describe the problem that brought you in and how it affects your day, including when it began and what you have tried already. Mention relevant health conditions and the medicines you take, even if they seem unrelated to the sore area. Canadian Chiropractic Association appointment guide.
If sitting through a workday is difficult, say how long you can sit before symptoms build. That gives the assessment a useful goal beyond a general request to feel better.
What does the examination involve?
The examination should be chosen around your symptoms and health history, with the purpose of the tests explained to you. Tell the clinician if a movement feels uncomfortable.
The explanation afterwards should cover what the findings suggest and whether another healthcare provider needs to be involved. You can ask what they found and how it changes the options available to you. Canadian Chiropractic Association code of ethics.
Do I have to have an adjustment?
You can decline an adjustment and ask about alternatives before agreeing to any treatment. Your chiropractor should explain the expected benefits and risks of any proposed treatment, including an adjustment, and answer your questions. Informed consent means making that decision with an understanding of the care being offered. Patient-centred care principles.
Chiropractic care may also include exercise rehabilitation and advice, depending on the assessment. Ask how each recommendation relates to the activity you want to get back to, and what you can do between appointments.
Will I need ongoing appointments?
The number of visits should depend on the problem and your response to care. The Canadian Chiropractic Association recommends a plan with clear ways to assess progress and regular reassessment of the need for treatment. A first visit cannot guarantee how quickly you will improve. Patient-centred practice recommendations.
Before booking follow-ups, ask when the plan will be reviewed and what would lead to a change. The goal might be getting through a work shift or returning to a sport; it should be something that matters to you.
What should I bring to the first visit?
Bring information that helps explain your concern, along with the questions you want answered:
- A list of medicines and relevant health conditions.
- Note what you have tried already and whether it helped.
- What activity would you most like to return to?
- Tell the chiropractor about any treatment you feel unsure about.
Our chiropractic page introduces the team in Charlottetown and lists the current appointment fees. You can book an initial consultation online and use that visit to discuss the care that fits your concern.