What to expect at an appointment

You can play a role in the success of your own chiropractic care before your first visit by understanding what to expect.

Duration of visit

Depending on the injury or reason for which you are seeking chiropractic treatment, initial visits may last from 30 to 60 minutes. Subsequent visits will likely be shorter, but the first visit aims to start building the therapeutic relationship, identifying the cause of the problem and discussing a proposed plan of management. Chiropractors are extensively trained to assess, diagnose, manage and prevent reoccurrence of musculoskeletal conditions while specifically addressing your needs and goals. It’s important that you communicate your values and treatment expectations with your chiropractor.

What is the average cost to see a chiropractor

The cost of a chiropractic appointment depends on your provider, the length of treatment, the province or territory where treatment is received, and more. Initial appointments typically cost more as they are longer in duration. Before your first appointment, contact the chiropractor or their clinic for detailed information on appointment fees.

Some extended health benefits plans cover a portion or all the cost of your chiropractic visit. If you have extended health benefits, it is recommended to contact the provider to determine if or how much coverage you are entitled to, before attending your first appointment.

Some chiropractic clinics also offer direct billing to insurance providers. Contact the clinic office for more details on this service.

Health history

Your first appointment includes a comprehensive assessment to help your chiropractor understand what is bringing you in and determine how to treat it. To do so, patients can expect that the history-taking portion of the visit may include questions about the following areas of your health¹:

• A description of your area(s) of concern
• The steps you have taken to manage your condition
• A description of the general state of your health
• Personal and family medical history
• Major illnesses you have experienced
• Surgeries or operations you have had
• Medications you are taking
• Your diet and exercise habits
• Your sleeping habits
• Your daily activities
• Your work routine
• Your stress level
• Your home life

The health history portion of the appointment is also a time for patients to discuss their values, goals and expectations of care with their chiropractor.

Maximizing the benefits

Building a therapeutic relationship with a new practitioner can take some time but investing in good communication at the outset can help you maximize the benefit of your chiropractic treatment. Your chiropractor will be happy to answer questions, address concerns and explain different options to you. This may include preventative strategies, changes in lifestyle practices, and rehabilitative stretches and/or exercises.

After the appointment

You chiropractor will review what to expect following your appointment based on your treatment plan. If you have additional questions or concerns, contact the clinic or write them down to be discussed at a subsequent visit.