Stepping into a chiropractic office for the first time can stir up a range of emotions. Curiosity, anticipation, or perhaps you feel a touch of nervousness. Maybe you’ve heard stories about the “pop” of an adjustment or are wondering what exactly happens during a chiropractic visit. If you’re new to this, no worries! Here’s what you can expect during your first chiropractic adjustment with Sentinel Health & Wellness.

The Initial Consultation

Your first visit won’t begin with an adjustment right away. Instead, your chiropractor will take the time to get to know you! That includes your health history, any current concerns, and your wellness goals. This is an important step in understanding what’s going on with your body and how chiropractic care can help you reach your goals of:

• Relieving pain
• Regulating your bodily systems
• Restoring your body to optimal health

You can expect to answer questions about instances such as past injuries, surgeries, or chronic pain. Your chiropractor may also ask about lifestyle habits, such as posture, exercise routines, and sleep quality. This conversation helps you both create a personalized plan to address your individual needs.

The Physical Examination

After your consultation, your chiropractor will perform a physical exam to assess posture, range of motion, and spinal alignment. They may use noninvasive tests to identify areas of concern. This allows the chiropractor to get a clearer picture of what’s happening beneath the surface and how it may be affecting your daily life.

For example, if you’re experiencing chronic headaches, your chiropractor might discover that tension in your neck and shoulders is the underlying cause. If you suffer from lower back pain, they may find that a misalignment in your pelvis or an uneven gait is putting excess strain on your spine. Even issues like digestive discomfort can sometimes be linked to spinal misalignments that interfere with nerve function.

Recognizing these connections allows your chiropractor to create a personalized treatment plan that not only relieves pain but also supports long-term healing.

Applied Kinesiology in Chiropractic Care

At Sentinel Health & Wellness, we use Applied Kinesiology, a noninvasive chiropractic technique that relies on muscle testing as a diagnostic tool. Muscles can reveal imbalances in essential bodily systems such as the nervous, digestive, and circulatory systems. 

This technique allows us to evaluate muscle strength and weakness and uncover underlying issues that may be affecting your health. Whether discomfort stems from stress, posture, or a deeper imbalance, we create treatment plans to address the source, and create lasting solutions.

Your First Adjustment

Once the evaluation is complete, your chiropractor will explain their findings and recommend a treatment approach. If you’re comfortable, you may receive your first adjustment during this visit.

When it’s time for an adjustment, these involve applying controlled force to specific joints to restore proper alignment and function. The technique your chiropractor uses will depend on factors like your comfort level, age, and any existing conditions. While some people experience the classic “pop” sound, caused by gas being released from the joints, others receive gentle, low-force techniques that achieve the same results without the audible release.

Here’s what you might experience:

• A sense of relief or relaxation as tension in the joints is released.
• Improved mobility and a feeling of lightness or ease in movement.
• Mild soreness, similar to what you might feel after a workout, which typically fades within a day.

After the adjustment, your chiropractor will provide guidance on maintaining your health. They may recommend staying hydrated, doing gentle stretches, or avoiding strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Some people feel immediate improvement, while others notice gradual changes over the next few days.

Your Personalized Care Plan

Chiropractic care is not a one-and-done treatment. It’s a journey toward better health. Depending on your condition, your chiropractor may suggest follow-up visits to maintain progress and prevent future issues. These follow-ups may include treatments such as:

• Spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and improve nervous system function.
• Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension and enhance mobility.
• Postural correction exercises to improve alignment and prevent future issues.
• Nutritional guidance to support overall wellness and healing.
• Lifestyle recommendations, including ergonomic tips and stress management techniques.

Regular adjustments will help support spinal health, improve nervous system function, and improve overall well-being, not just for the body but also for the mind.

Ready to Experience Chiropractic Care?

Your first chiropractic adjustment is a step toward better health and mobility. If you’re ready to see how it can benefit you, Schedule a Consultation Appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable life!