What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Appointment

Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can bring up a lot of questions, or might even be a little scary if you don't know what to expect. At Bixby Knolls Wellness Center in Long Beach, CA, we believe that starting any new health journey should feel supportive and stress-free. That’s why your first chiropractic appointment is designed to be informative and completely tailored to your comfort level. 

In this post, we’ll walk you through each step so you can feel prepared for your visit.

A Note for Pregnant Patients:

If you're pregnant, please let our front desk staff and chiropractor know before your appointment. We offer safe, specialized prenatal chiropractic care using gentle techniques like the Webster Method. Your comfort and safety are our top priority, and we’ll ensure your care is adapted to support your body through every stage of pregnancy.

Step 1: Warm Welcome & Intake Process

When you arrive at our center, our front desk team will greet you and help you get settled. If you haven’t already completed your new patient intake forms, you’ll be asked to fill them out in our waiting area. 

These forms give us important insights into your medical history, current symptoms, and health goals, so we can tailor your care from the start.  While you’re completing your forms, feel free to ask any questions. Our staff is happy to assist and make sure you’re fully informed before your consultation begins.

Step 2: One-on-One Consultation with Your Chiropractor

Once you’re checked in and your paperwork is complete, you’ll meet with your chiropractor for a private consultation. This is your opportunity to openly share what brings you in, whether it’s chronic neck or back pain, tension headaches, pregnancy-related discomfort, sports injuries, or general wellness support.

We’ll take the time to talk through:

• Your health history — including past injuries, surgeries, or conditions that may affect your spine or musculoskeletal system.
• Current symptoms — when they started, how often they occur, and what makes them better or worse.
• Your daily routine — work posture, stress levels, exercise habits, and sleep quality.
• Your wellness goals — whether you're looking for pain relief, improved mobility, preventative care, or a long-term wellness plan.

This consultation helps us get to know you, not just your symptoms, so we can recommend care that’s aligned with your lifestyle. You’re encouraged to ask questions at any time, and our goal is to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the care you’re receiving.

Step 3: Physical Exam & Evaluation

After your consultation, your chiropractor will perform a thorough physical examination to better understand how your body is functioning and identify the root cause of your discomfort. This part of your visit is hands-on but non-invasive. 

During this initial chiropractic exam, we may:

• Evaluate your posture and spinal alignment – We’ll look at how you sit, stand, and move to identify imbalances or misalignments that could be contributing to pain or tension.
• Check your range of motion – Simple movements will help us assess how well your joints and muscles are working and whether there’s any restriction or discomfort.
• Test muscle strength and reflexes – These neurological tests can help determine how your nervous system is responding and whether specific muscles are overactive or weakened.
• Perform orthopedic or functional tests – These may include gentle pressure or resistance tests to pinpoint the source of pain or dysfunction.

If your chiropractor feels that additional imaging (like X-rays) is needed to get a clearer picture of what’s going on, we’ll discuss that with you before moving forward.

Step 4: Review of Findings & Personalized Treatment Plan

Once your chiropractor has completed the consultation and physical assessment, they’ll take time to review their findings with you. 

Here’s what you can expect:

• Clear, jargon-free explanation – We’ll walk you through what we discovered during the exam, such as areas of tension, misalignment, or dysfunction.
• Diagnosis and care goals – If appropriate, we’ll share a working diagnosis and discuss realistic outcomes and goals for your treatment.
• Custom treatment plan – Based on your body, lifestyle, and preferences, we’ll outline a personalized plan. This might include chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, therapeutic exercises, or recommendations for other complementary therapies like acupuncture.

We’ll also talk through:

• How often you should come in for care
• What you can do at home to support your progress
• What kind of results you can expect over time

Most importantly, you’ll have the chance to ask questions so you can be fully informed at every step.

Step 5: Your First Adjustment (If Appropriate)

If your chiropractor determines that it is safe and appropriate to begin treatment, you may receive your first chiropractic adjustment during the initial visit. 

Before the adjustment begins, your provider will explain the technique they plan to use, what it is designed to do, and how it may feel. At Bixby Knolls Wellness Center, all adjustments are performed with care using gentle, evidence-based chiropractic techniques that are personalized to your specific condition and comfort level.

Some patients feel immediate benefits, such as reduced tension or increased mobility. Others may experience mild soreness following treatment, similar to what you might feel after physical activity. This is a normal response and typically resolves within a day or two. 

If your chiropractor determines that more time, information, or imaging is needed before beginning care, they will explain the reasoning and walk you through the next steps of your wellness plan.

Tips to Prepare for Your Visit

Now that you know what to expect, here are a few simple tips to help you feel comfortable and make the most of your appointment.

• Wear comfortable clothing: Loose-fitting or athletic wear makes it easier for your chiropractor to assess movement and provide treatment.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water before your appointment helps keep your muscles and joints more flexible.
• Arrive early: Give yourself an extra 10–15 minutes to complete any intake forms and settle in.
• Bring your insurance info: If you plan to use insurance, bring your card and any necessary documentation for a smoother check-in.
  
  

Ready to Start Your Chiropractic Care?

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly team that genuinely cares. We take the time to listen, explain, and tailor your care to your unique needs and goals. 

Whether you're unsure what treatment is right for you or ready to get started, we’ll guide you every step of the way, without pressure or confusion.

Have questions? We’re happy to answer them. Just want to see if we’re the right fit? We’d love to talk. When you’re ready, we’re here.
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🗓️ Request Your Appointment Today