Your First Visit

Patient Forms

Upon entering our office, our receptionist will  welcome you and will request that you complete our  patient forms located in the New Patient Center. This paperwork provides us with your health history and information on your condition. If you have already completed the on-line form or printed the downloadable form you'll see the doctor much faster.

Consultation

Next, you will have a consultation with either Dr. Croteau or Dr. O'Flaherty to discuss your injury, health-related problems, concerns, and potential treatment options. This initial visit is designed for the doctors to learn more about you, your condition, and  expectations to determine how chiropractic care can meet your goals.

Examination

After your consultation, the doctor will perform a complete chiropractic examination which may be specific to the injured area or a more general exam depending on your specific complaint. Other standard neurological, orthopedic, postural, and physical tests will be performed as well. However, nothing  will be done in our office  without your consent.

X-Ray Studies

Depending on your specific condition, we may order X-rays as well. X-rays help us develop  the most effective treatment plan for you, and alert us of  any serious spinal conditions. Most people are amazed once they see their X-rays up close. In some cases, they can even identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves. We may also request to see any previous X-rays.

Report of Findings

Once the information is collected  and examinations are performed, the doctor will give you a detailed report of all findings and answer any questions you may have.

After reviewing your health history,  goals, and examining your spine and/or X-rays, the doctor will discuss recommendations and notify you if  your condition  requires care with other providers ie. referral to orthopaedic specialist, your family doctor, a naturopathic doctor, massage therapist, nutritionist or a physiotherapist.   Our doctors will  provide the best  treatment and/or wellness program for your needs.

Treatment

 At the conclusion of this initial  appointment, you can choose to  experience your first treatment. This may include spinal adjustments, physical therapy, and/or soft tissue massage.  Treatment is interactive, so  you can express concerns about the different styles of treatment  anytime.

Wellness/Rehab Program

Prior to leaving, our doctors will suggest a  wellness program  to incorporate outside of treatment.  If you are in pain when you first come into our office this may include: ice or heat application instructions, certain activities or positions to avoid, and at home exercises and/or stretches.  If you desire,  our wellness team will work with you also to create healthy habits and routines for your lifestyle.  Every person is unique, therefore everyone requires a  customized wellness plan.  The purpose  of our wellness program is for   you  to achieve good spinal alignment, have a  healthy diet, exercise, and maintain a positive mental state.