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What to Expect at Your First Visit

New Patients · What to Expect

What to Expect at Your First Visit

No surprises — just a clear exam, a conservative plan, and simple next steps.

Movement-based exam + clear explanation (no guessing)
Conservative options — never a “one-size-fits-all” plan
You leave with a simple home plan + next-step timeline

Your first visit is built around clarity. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate movement, screen for red flags, and explain what’s most likely driving your symptoms. If you’re dealing with common concerns like low back pain, neck pain, headaches, or sciatica, we’ll connect the dots and outline the simplest next steps.

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  • Clear expectations: what we’ll do, what we won’t do, and why
  • Smart screening for “needs imaging / needs medical eval” red flags
  • Simple plan you can actually follow between visits
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Written by:Dr. Tyler M. Graham, DC
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Clinically reviewed by:Balanced Chiropractic Clinical Team
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Last updated:December 31, 2025
Educational only. Not medical advice. If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or you suspect an emergency, seek urgent care.

Your First Visit: The Simple Flow

We keep this practical and efficient — so you leave with a plan that makes sense.

1

Intake + Goals

We review your symptoms, history, and what you want to get back to — work, lifting, sports, sleep, or daily life.

2

Movement-Based Exam

We assess movement, strength, and pattern triggers, and we screen nerves when needed — so we understand what’s driving it.

3

Clear Plan + Next Steps

You’ll get an explanation, your options, and a straightforward plan — including what to do at home between visits.

What we’re looking for

  • Pattern triggers: what reliably makes symptoms better/worse
  • Mobility + mechanics: where motion is limited or guarded
  • Load tolerance: what your body tolerates right now (and how to build it)
  • Nerve screen (when needed): strength, sensation, reflexes
  • Red flags: “needs imaging / needs medical eval” concerns

If your issue is work-related, see Work & Lifting Injuries. If symptoms began after a crash, see Auto Accident & Whiplash.

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Want a no-surprises first visit?

Book an evaluation and we’ll walk you through exactly what we’re seeing, what it means, and your clearest next step.

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What Care May Include (If Appropriate)

Care is always guided by your exam findings, your comfort, and your goals.

Common conservative options

  • Chiropractic adjustments to improve motion and reduce protective guarding (see Chiropractic Adjustments)
  • Spinal decompression when symptoms suggest disc/nerve irritation and you’re a good candidate (see Spinal Decompression)
  • Posture/ergonomics changes for desk-driven neck pain (see Posture & Tech Neck)
  • Orthotics support when foot mechanics contribute to knee/hip/back overload (see Custom Orthotics)
  • Home plan that matches your irritability and schedule

We’ll explain what we recommend and why — and we’ll also tell you what we don’t think you need.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

Simple prep helps your exam go faster and your plan be more accurate.

Bring (if you have it)

  • Any relevant imaging reports (X-ray/MRI summaries)
  • Medication list (optional, but helpful)
  • Work/accident details if applicable
  • Your main questions/goals (we’ll write them down)

Wear

  • Comfortable clothing you can move in
  • Shorts/leggings helpful for hip/knee/low-back exams
  • Supportive shoes if foot mechanics are part of the issue

Related Reading

Helpful guides to understand care options, expectations, and common concerns.

Related Services

First Visit FAQs

Clear answers — including “when to worry.”

How long does a first visit take?
Most first visits take longer than a follow-up because we complete intake forms, talk through your history, perform a movement-based exam, and explain your plan. We’ll tell you what to expect when you schedule so there are no surprises.
Do I need imaging (X-ray or MRI) before my first visit?
Not always. Many cases can be evaluated safely with a thorough history and exam. If your presentation suggests a need for imaging or medical evaluation, we’ll explain why and help coordinate next steps.
Will I get adjusted on my first visit?
Sometimes. If your exam suggests care is appropriate and safe, we may begin conservative treatment on the first visit. If not, we’ll focus on clarity—what’s most likely driving symptoms and the safest next step.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in. If needed, we’ll provide guidance for comfort and modesty while still letting us assess movement.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring a photo ID, any relevant imaging reports, and a list of medications if helpful. If your symptoms are work-related or due to an accident, bring any claim details you have. New patient forms can often be completed ahead of time.
What if I’m nervous about cracking or the adjustment?
That’s common. We’ll explain options, use conservative techniques, and never force a style of care you’re uncomfortable with. Many patients do well with gentle approaches and a simple home plan.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your goals, the driver of your symptoms, and how long the issue has been present. After your exam, we’ll outline a straightforward plan and what progress should look like—without confusing schedules.
When should I worry and seek urgent medical care instead of booking?
Seek urgent care/ER for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, loss of bowel/bladder control, new progressive weakness/numbness, chest pain/shortness of breath, fever with severe pain, suspected fracture, or any emergency concern.

Ready to Get Started?

Book your first visit and we’ll build a clear, conservative plan that fits your goals — with simple next steps you can follow.

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