Preparing for Your Chiropractic Visit
In order to decide how to care for you, doctors need to know what the problem is. To make your visit productive and efficient. Here is an outline of what is going to happen at each visit and some questions you should be prepared to answer. Think about the answers in advance so you are prepared. A list of your questions, symptoms and concerns is a great way to be sure we cover everything and keep the appointment going smoothly.
1. What is the problem and when did the problem start?
Was there a specific cause like a fall, lifting wrong, excessive work, etc. No specific cause is the most common
2. Did the problem start gradually or immediately after an incident and how did it progress?
Is it getting better, worse or not changing?
3. Describe the pain/discomfort. How strong?
Sharp – bone or muscle
Dull, tender – inflammation, connective tissue
Ache, cramping, deep pain or pressure – inflammation, organs
Tingling, electrical, stabbing, burning, shooting– nerve
Hot, burning – vascular
Rate the level of discomfort/pain : 0-10 with 0 = no pain and 10 = the worst pain you can imagine
1-3 is annoying, but does not stop activities
4-6 limits activity because it increases pain or the pain causes you to want to rest
7-8 severely limits activity and is incapacitating to some degree
10 causing tears and unable to care for yourself.
4. How often does the pain/ discomfort come?
Intermittent 0-25% of the time (can be percent of a day or week)
Occasional 26-50%
Frequent 51-75%
Constant 76-100%
5. Is there a change in your abilities?
Sitting, standing, walking, laying down, dressing, self-care, working, exercising, performing hobbies
EX: sitting for only 10 minutes, standing or walking for 2 minutes, disturbs sleep
