What to expect at your first visit
Most people feel a little nervous before seeing a chiropractor for the first time. Here's exactly what happens.
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Your first visit, step by step
- We talk it through. Dr Damien asks about your pain, your health history, your work and activity, and what you'd like to get back to. This helps him work out whether chiropractic is right for you.
- A thorough assessment. He looks at your posture, checks how each part of your spine and joints moves, and may do some simple tests of your reflexes, strength and sensation.
- X-rays, only if needed. If your history or examination suggests an x-ray would help, he'll refer you to a local imaging clinic. X-rays are bulk billed where eligible.
- A clear explanation. Before any treatment, Dr Damien explains what he's found and your options, in plain language. You decide what happens next.
- Treatment and advice. If you're happy to go ahead, treatment is usually a gentle adjustment. You'll leave with exercises, stretches or advice to help you recover.
Pre-launch: x-ray billingassumed: Bulk-billed x-rays: assumed, confirm with the clinic · Visit lengthto confirm: Confirm how long first and follow-up visits take (suggested: about 45 minutes and 15 to 20 minutes)
What an adjustment is like
An adjustment is a quick, specific movement to a joint that isn't moving well. Most people find it comfortable. You might hear a click or pop: that's just gas being released from the joint, the same as when you crack your knuckles. Some people feel a little sore for a day afterwards, like after exercise.
If you'd prefer not to have a particular joint adjusted, just say so. There are gentler options.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on what's going on and how long you've had it. A recent strain may settle in a few visits, while a long-standing problem usually takes longer. Dr Damien will explain a plan, check your progress as you go, and adjust it with you. You're always free to decide how often you come.
What to bring and wear
- Comfortable clothes you can move in
- Any recent x-rays, scans or reports
- Your GP referral or Chronic Disease Management plan, if you have oneassumed: Medicare CDM accepted: assumed
- Your health fund card to claim on the spot with HICAPSassumed: HICAPS: assumed
- Your DVA, TAC or WorkSafe claim details, if relevantassumed: DVA, TAC and WorkSafe: assumed
Paying and claiming
- Claim your private health fund rebate on the spot with HICAPSassumed: Claims item assumed; confirm with the clinic
- Medicare-referred care through your GP's Chronic Disease Management planassumed: Claims item assumed; confirm with the clinic
- DVA, TAC and WorkSafe patients welcomeassumed: Claims item assumed; confirm with the clinic
- X-rays, if needed, are bulk billed where eligibleassumed: Claims item assumed; confirm with the clinic
Ready to book your first visit?
Two clinics, open Monday to Saturday between them. See all hours