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There will be new patient paperwork that you can download from this site and bring with you to your appointment or plan on arriving 15 minutes early to fill them out at the office.

Please be ready to provide your medical history, which will be essential for preparing a course of treatment for you.

Certain things in your health history are particularly vital to a chiropractor. This information could provide important clues that will allow your chiropractor to properly diagnose your problem. Such clues include whether you have or have had:

• Bone disorders, such as osteoporosis
• Circulatory problems (poor circulation could be a sign that you have a subluxation, for example)
• Dizziness or blurred vision
• Heart conditions such as hypertension or high blood pressure
• Infections, especially those affecting your spine
• Injuries, such as bone fractures, muscle sprains, or disc injuries
• Joint disorders such as arthritis
• Sleep apnea

Be prepared to answer such questions as:

• Did the onset of your pain immediately follow an injury?
• Is there anything you do that improves or worsens the pain?
• When and how did your pain start?
• Where is the pain centered?

The physical exam

Here's what to expect:

The first order of business is checking your vital signs, reflexes, and blood pressure.

Next, a short physical exam by the chiropractor will involve palpation, or use of the hands, to explore the alignment of your spine and other structures, as well as provide information on any stimuli that may cause pain. Depending on your condition, a series of diagnostic tests may follow. These tests may include MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, blood work, and other laboratory tests.

The chiropractor may also consult with you about making important lifestyle changes, such as exercise, nutrition, and smoking cessation to improve your chances of healing faster or preventing further injury.