Patient Forms
Upon entering our office our receptionist 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 the doctor to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, as well as potential treatment options. Your first visit is designed for the doctor to learn more about you, your condition and your expectations to determine whether chiropractic care meet your goals.
Examination
After your consultation, the doctor will perform a complete chiropractic examination testing your reflexes, your ability to turn and bend as well as other standard neurological, 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 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 see their x-rays and can often immediately identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
Report of Findings
Once all the information and examinations have been performed, the doctor 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, the doctor will discuss recommendations with you. If you have a condition that requires care with other providers, the doctor will tell you. If Dr. Ricks or Dr. Hood believe they can help you, they 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, physical therapies, and/or soft tissue therapies. Treatment is interactive with you so you can express any concerns you have about the style of adjustment you will be most comfortable with.
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 into 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 everyone 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.