Our objective is to help you as much as we can – even on your first visit. It is surprising how many offices only do a history and exam on the first visit and begin treatment on the second visit. Our office will also treat on your first visit with us. Your first visit with us will include the following:
Case History> This is a questionnaire where you describe your current complaint and any related conditions you have had in the past. This is also when any health insurance information you may have will be copied and returned to you.
Exam/Consultation> This is a face to face meeting with Dr. Harris where the case history is reviewed in depth, when you can fully describe your condition and how it happened. Immediately following the consultation a full exam will be performed – tailored to your specific complaint. A good exam is very important in order to reach a proper diagnosis. Any or all of the following procedures will be used: Posture Analysis, Range of Motion, muscle strength testing, gait analysis, deep tendon reflexes, dermatomes, palpation, orthopedic tests, and a MYOVISION scan. Any X-rays or MRI studies you may have had will also be reviewed here. These tests will tell us what part is causing the problem whether muscle, tendon, ligament, disc, bone, joint, nerve, etc. Obviously, you can not be treated successfully until the cause of your problem is discovered (your diagnosis).
Treatment> We have at our office a variety of state-of-the-art treatments. The treatment or treatments we use are determined by your diagnosis and stage of your injury (acute, sub-acute, chronic). These include: ultrasound, shortwave diathermy (deep heat), cryotherapy (cold), hydrotherapy massage, interferential muscle stimulation, strengthening exercise, and of course, adjustments (chiropractic manipulation). On your first visit you will also be given a sample of a topical pain relieving gel called BIOFREEZE.
Many people ask us if X-rays are required when they come to us. We DO NOT make it a blanket policy to have everyone X-rayed before beginning treatment. If, however, your history or exam suggests an X-ray is warranted in your case (ex: a bad fall suggesting a possible fracture) we will of course recommend one.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time to fill out the necessary paperwork and bring any insurance or referral information or forms that are necessary. If you have any MRIs, X-rays or diagnostic testing please bring the actual films if possible. Also please feel free to wear comfortable clothes like T-shirts and jogging pants so you feel comfortable and unrestricted during the examination and treatment process.