One of our experience and friendly chiropractors will begin by asking you questions about your complaint and any other problems that have been concerning you. We listen to the full story. We will also cover a detailed past medical history which will enable us to obtain an overview of your health and wellbeing.

We will then carry out a thorough and specific neuro-orthopeadic examination to find the root cause of your problem. These results combined with your history will allow us to formulate a diagnosis. At this stage, if it is appropriate, your Chiropractor may talk to you about starting treatment. If it is necessary your Chiropractor will discuss the need for any further investigations, such as Ultrasound, X-Rays or MRIs. Your next appointment is called a “Report of Findings”.

Your next appointment is called a “Report of Findings”.

We will provide you with a full diagnosis and discuss your bespoke management plan. This will include recommendations designed to address your complaint and way to help you achieve and maintain your health. If after the history and examination your Chiropractor feels the problem is unsuitable for Chiropractic treatment we will endeavour to refer you to the appropriate specialists. In your Report of findings we will discuss:

• What we found during your examination
• Your personal care pain and the reasons for these recommendations
• The results of any imaging referrals
• The options and choices you have
• Self-help exercises and rehab techniques
• The cost of treatment
• Your expected recovery time

Everything covered will also be provided in your very own Patient Report Pack. During your Report of Findings you can ask as many questions as you need to. At Advanced Chiropractic clinics we feel it is very important you understand everything we have discussed and decided.

Once you are happy with everything we have discussed you are ready for your first Chiropractic treatment.

We will need to know any previous surgery, illness, your past medical records as well as your current state of health including any medication you are taking. Any previous scans, X-rays, MRIs, letters or investigations are always helpful.

If you are intending to claim for treatment using private health insurance it is useful to bring the details with you.

You will be offered a gown during all assessments and treatments.

If you are having your first Chiropractic consultation and you have a lower limb related problem you should bring shorts.

If your problem is athletic/activity related e.g running or playing a musical instrument then you should bring any pertinent footwear or equipment.

If you are having a Sport Massage and you require work to your lower limbs or low back you should bring shorts.

If you are having a Exercise Rehabilitation Assessment or Sports Specific Assessment please wear something comfortable that you are able to move in. Wearing your normal trainers would be helpful.

For our clinicians to do an accurate assessment and gather all relevant information it is often beneficial to uncover the body part in question. We assure you that all levels of decency will be observed at all times and we encourage you to bring a chaperone if you feel more comfortable. You will be offered a freshly laundered gown with every appointment and we can also provide clean shorts or vest tops.

If you have an upper body or neck problem you will be required to remove your top half. Ladies should wear underwear that they feel comfortable in or bring a vest top.

For a lower limb or low back problem we will often ask you to uncover both your lower and upper back. For the lower half we would suggest that you bring some shorts.

It is important to communicate your feelings if at any time you feel uncomfortable during the process.

Your Chiropractor will go through everything you need to know in your Report of Findings session before your treatment starts. Once you have all the relevant information you have the option to start treatment right there and then, or to wait until you feel ready to get started.

Chiropractic treatment is usually painless unless an area is inflamed (swollen). If this is the case your chiropractor will alter the treatment. Don’t worry if you hear a clicking or popping noise when one of your joints is being manipulated – this is perfectly normal with this form of treatment. Some patients have mild reactions such as temporary aches and pains after their spine or joints have been manipulated or after exercising. It is important that you talk to your chiropractor if you feel worried about anything either during or after treatment.

Your Chiropractor will discuss if you need any further investigations at your New Patient Consultation. We have fantastic links with local hospitals and imaging centres so whether you need an MRI, X-ray, Ultrasound or anything else we have you covered.