Your initial visit to a chiropractor typically resembles a regular medical appointment. The chiropractor begins by gathering detailed information about your condition through questions. This includes understanding how your pain originated, how different activities affect your pain levels and any accompanying symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have relevant medical information stored in a system like Duke MyChart, the chiropractor may review it beforehand, including any available images such as MRIs or X-rays.

Afterward, the chiropractor conducts a comprehensive examination to assess your pain's medical and mechanical aspects. This examination evaluates the alignment, muscle tone, nerve function, and overall body movements. The analysis also includes assessing your ability to bend, turn, twist, and identify activities that reproduce your symptoms. In some cases, if necessary, the chiropractor may recommend further imaging, such as X-rays, although most patients do not require imaging during their initial visit.

Following the examination, the chiropractor engages in a discussion with you. They will explain their assessment of your spinal condition, recommend suitable treatments, and outline how they can benefit you. As part of a collaborative approach, the chiropractor may also suggest referrals to other healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, physiatrists, or spine surgeons if they believe it will provide you with additional benefits.