Your first visit to a Chiropractor

What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Chiropractor in the UK

If you're considering visiting a chiropractor at the Newport Clinic for the first time, you might have a few questions about what to expect. Chiropractic care is a popular treatment for musculoskeletal issues, particularly back and neck pain. Whether you've booked your first appointment or are still deciding, here's a guide to help you feel prepared and informed.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your first visit will typically start with an initial consultation, this lasts around 45-60minutes. The chiropractor will take a detailed medical history, asking about your current symptoms, lifestyle, medical conditions, and any past injuries. This is essential to ensure that chiropractic care is safe and suitable for you.

After discussing your medical history, the chiropractor will perform a physical examination. This may include:

• Assessing your posture and movement
• Testing your reflexes, strength, and flexibility
• Palpation (feeling the spine and surrounding muscles for tension or abnormalities)
• Possibly taking measurements or occasionally referral to your GP or for diagnostic tests (such as X-rays or MRI scans, though these are not always required)

Diagnosis and Treatment Plan

Once the assessment is complete, your chiropractor will explain their findings and discuss a tailored treatment plan. This may involve:

• A series of chiropractic adjustments to realign joints
• Soft tissue therapy, such as massage or stretching
• Advice on posture, exercise, and lifestyle changes to prevent further issues
• Recommendations for additional treatments if needed (e.g., physiotherapy, acupuncture)

The chiropractor will also discuss any risks or potential side effects, such as temporary soreness after treatment, so you know what to expect.

The First Treatment Session

If it's deemed appropriate, your first session may include treatment. Chiropractic adjustments involve gentle and controlled movements to manipulate the spine and joints. You might hear a 'popping' or 'cracking' sound, which is completely normal and caused by gas bubbles being released from the joints.

Depending on your condition, the chiropractor may also use techniques like:

• Mobilisation (slower, gentler movements to improve flexibility)
• Soft tissue therapy (to relieve muscle tension)
• Exercise recommendations to support recovery

Aftercare and Follow-Up

After your first treatment, you might feel immediate relief, or you may experience mild soreness for a day or two—similar to how you feel after exercise. Your chiropractor may advise you on aftercare, including stretching, hydration and avoiding strenuous activities.

Its normal that follow-up appointments may be required to assess progress and continue treatment as necessary. The frequency of visits will depend on your specific condition and response to treatment, alongside other aspects of your health and lifestyle - diet, sleep habits, exercise, stress etc which all have an impact on how quickly you respond to treatment. Each plan is tailored to the individual so no two will be exactly the same.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement, if we need you to change/undress we can provide a gown, you are also welcome to bring shorts if you are more comfortable.
• Be honest about your medical history to ensure safe and effective treatment, even if you don't think its relevant - if you aren't sure please ask, we are happy to explain.
• Ask questions if you're unsure about any aspect of your care, from how many sessions to understanding treatment techniques or exercise advice - there are no silly questions!
• Follow aftercare advice to maximise the benefits of your treatment.

Final Thoughts

Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can be a positive step towards managing pain and improving mobility. By knowing what to expect, you can feel more at ease and make the most of your treatment. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your chiropractor—they are there to help you on your journey to better health.

For more information or to make an appointment get in touch with us now!