What to Expect
Laying the foundation of the Three Phases of Care
Chiropractic care is like building a house - certain things have to happen in a particular order in order for everything to stand strong and work correctly. The same is true for your body. Your body has to go through a particular plan of care in order to repair itself correctly and fully. There are three general phases of chiropractic care . . .
Patient Forms
Upon entering our office our receptionist, Johanna, will greet you and welcome you as a member of our family. We will request you fill our patient forms located in the New Patient Center. The paperwork provides us with general information about yourself and your condition.
Consultation
Next you will have a consultation with Dr. Steven Wasserman to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, as well as potential treatment options. Your first visit is designed for Dr. Wasserman to learn more about you, your condition and your expectations to determine whether chiropractic care will you meet your goals.
Examination
After your consultation, Dr. Wasserman will perform a complete chiropractic examination testing your reflexes, your ability to turn and bend as well as other standard neurologic, orthopedic, postural, and physical examinations. Nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
X-Ray Studies
Your specific condition may require us to take x-rays to to get a full evaluation of a patient. X-rays help us rule out more serious conditions or assist us in developing the most effective treatment plan for you. Most people are amazed once they have x-rays, they can then often immediately identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
Report of Findings
Once all the information and examinations have been performed, Dr. Wasserman will give you a report of findings to answer the three most popular questions:
- Can you help me?
- What do you recommend that I do to get better?
- How much is it going to cost?
After discussing with you your history and your goals, examining your spine and reviewing any x-rays or tests, Dr. Wasserman will discuss recommendations with you. If you have a condition that requires care with other providers, the doctor will tell you. If Dr. Wasserman believes he can help you, he will recommend treatment and a wellness program.
Treatment
Patients will generally be provided with their first treatment at the conclusion of the appointment. This may include spinal adjustments and/or physical therapies. Treatment is interactive with you so you can express any concerns you have about the adjustment and physical therapy you will be most comfortable with.
*Click here... What to Expect after a Chiropractic Adjustment
Wellness Program
Prior to leaving, patients will be instructed on a wellness program to be conducted at home. If you are in pain when you first come intor our office this may include ice or heat application instructions, avoidance of certain activities or positions, as well as home exercises and/or stretches. If you desire an overall wellness lifestyle, our wellness team will work with you to create good habits and routines that support your success. Every body is unique and different and therefore everone requires a unique and customized wellness plan. The foundation of our overall wellness lifestyle is maintaining healthy posture and good spinal alignment, eating a healthy diet, taking supplements, keeping your weight under control and stress relief......"Help me help you!" .....Dr. Wasserman
Phases of Care
Phase 1: Relief Care
If you are in pain when you come into our office, the first objective is to help you feel better. Depending on the severity of your problem or injury, it is typical to need care 2-3 times per week for 2-8 weeks.
Many people go to a chiropractor because they are in pain. In this first phase of care, the main goal is to reduce your symptoms. Sometimes this will require daily visits, or two to three visits per week for a time.
click here "Essential" Guidelines to Improve Your Condition During the First Phase of Care
click here "What to Expect after your Chiropractic Adjustment"
Phase 2: Corrective/Restorative Care
During the corrective care phase, muscles and other tissues are allowed to heal more completely, thereby helping prevent injury. After you are out of the above acute pain, it is typical to need care 1-2 times per week for an additional 2-8 weeks, depending on your overall health and the severity of your problem.
Do not be discouraged if you have mild flare-ups in your symptoms on occasion. This is normal. Flare-ups are bound to occur during this phase because your body has not fully healed. Depending on the severity of your injury or condition and how long you have been suffering from it, this phase of your care may last anywhere from a few to several months.
Phase 3: Wellness Care
Once your body has fully healed, it is important to come in for periodic adjustments to avoid problems in the future. Usually, this only requires a quick visit to the chiropractor 1-4 times per month, based on your lifestyle and goals.
Maintenance is Key to Healthy Living
Once your body has fully healed, routine chiropractic care can help ensure that your physical problems do not return, and keep your body in optimal condition. Just like continuing an exercise program and eating well in order to sustain the benefits of exercise and proper diet, it is necessary to continue chiropractic care to ensure the health of your musculoskeletal system.
When you make routine chiropractic care a part of your lifestyle, you avoid many of the aches and pains that so many people suffer through, your joints will last longer and you will be able to engage in more of the activities you love.
"Now, you can maintain a healthy spine like me by keeping active and getting maintenance adjustments, or you can be like that other guy below me here, it is your choice!"
click here "What to Expect after your Chiropractic Adjustment"
