1st Chiropractic Visit

On your first visit to our office

You can expect to spend approximately 45 min. to 1 hour with the doctor. Prior to your first visit, Ellicott City, MD chiropractors ask that you fill out our “initial visit forms” online with details regarding your health history. This saves valuable time when you have these forms filled out in advance.

COURSE OF CARE

We will discuss all your health concerns with you to help determine the best course of care. Next, we will perform a skin temperature test using an instrument called a “Temp-o-scope/Nervo-scope”. This instrument records temperature readings on both sides of the spine. We're is looking for asymmetries that show up as specific patterns along the spine demonstrating nerve irritation. The scope pinpoints the particular area/areas that likely indicate where the nerve is being irritated. The instrument is non-invasive and glides gently down the length of your back like two fingers sliding down each side of your spine.

BEGINNING CHIROPRACTIC CARE IN Ellicott City

Next, your chiropractor will feel for the presence of swelling, tenderness, and any abnormal texture or tightness in the muscles and other tissues of your back (static palpation). They are also feeling for motion in the spine while moving and bending you (motion palpation) to determine how easily/difficult each segment in your spine is moving in different directions. They're also visually looking for subtle changes in your posture or gait that may indicate a problem as well.

NEXT STEPS

We’ll take an x-ray (if appropriate). The X-rays help us complete a thorough analysis of your spine.

THE X-RAYS IN THE “GONSTEAD SYSTEM”

Aside from pathology, x-rays are used to determine the best way to adjust a segment SPECIFICALLY e.g., which side of the joint to contact and thrust on and which side to stabilize, the best line-of-drive and thrust mechanism to make a specific correction. The goal is to restore FUNCTION, not necessarily straighten misalignments that may be normal for that individual.

FIRST ADJUSTMENT

After taking the necessary time to analyze your X-rays, Gonstead doctors are ready to deliver your first specific spinal adjustment. The Gonstead system was designed to be as specific and precise as possible! Great care is taken to adjust only that which is needed with the most accuracy and finesse possible.

Lastly, we will schedule your second visit to discuss our findings regarding your condition and determine a course of care.

Our testimonial

What They Say About Us

Dr. Austin is different from other practitioners I’ve seen. Very thorough in checking your spine by using a Nervoscope, analyzing the movement, and referring to the X-ray we took at our first appointment (which was done in office - very convenient). My husband, daughter, and I all see Dr. Austin. Super cool due and explains what he sees.

Kempee R.

I have been seeing Dr. Austin regularly since March of 2022. This is probably the longest I have been pain-free during my 7+ year journey with lower back pain. We have made a huge progress during the past few months and I look forward to fully getting back to an active lifestyle which included paddling and jiu-jitsu.

Greg M.

Dr. Austin and I always have a great time chatting every visit. I’ve had the pleasure to work with other doctors and talk with staff, and all of them are extremely professional and kind. I chose this practice because they take an x-ray and do a full analysis. After 6 months they take another set to show your progress. I’ve been with this practice for a few years and my back has always improved on each treatment.

Jordan M.

Dr. Austin fixed a shin injury almost instantly. I like that they take x-rays before any adjustments. The doctor takes his time, and they make sure they ask you how you’re feeling before they get going and before you leave.

Ana S.