Diagnostics and Testing Capabilities
State of the Art Diagnostic Options to Address Your Pain By Getting to the Root of the Problem
An Accurate Diagnosis is Essential for Chiropractic Care
Any construction worker will tell you that you can't build a skyscraper without looking at the blueprints.
You can't reach a solution without first understanding the problem.
The same is true for chiropractic care.
You can't expect your chiropractor to help return you to health if they don't know what the problem is.
That is why an accurate diagnosis is critical for a successful result, and you can't have an accurate diagnosis without first undergoing a thorough examination.
Arrowhead Clinic offers a free consultation for new patients. It is during this first visit that we generally perform such an examination, and arrive at a diagnosis.
There are 3 main steps that compose your first Chiropractic visit:
- Patient symptoms and history
- The chiropractic examination
- Your chiropractor's diagnosis
Read on to learn more about these three steps.
Patient Symptoms and History
This part of the appointment will feel familiar.
This is the point of the visit where you divulge information to the chiropractor that led you to this point.
Information will range from your name and phone number to more specific, relevant questions such as where is your pain located and when you initially noticed the pain.
Important note: It is always important to remain as specific and honest as possible. Your chiropractor will work hard to find the best approach to an individual case, therefore relevant and truthful information eases the process along.
The collection of this information will occur prior to your examination, most commonly in the form of a questionnaire.
General Tests
This stage of your visit begins your one on one time with the chiropractor.
Chiropractic examinations consist of more general tests and then more specific tests.
During the examination you can expect the following tests to be run:
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Reflexes
- Pulse OX
Next, the chiropractor will shift their attention to neurological and specific tests that focus on the part of your body you are experiencing problems with.
Specific Tests
Some examples of "Specific Tests" include:
- Posture analysis
- Range of motion
- Muscle strength
- Chiropractic manipulation of the sore area
Depending on the severity of your condition, more time could be spent on the affected area.
X-RAYS
An x-ray machine allows your chiropractor to look at your skeleton directly. An x-ray will allow them to actually see what your musculoskeletal condition is on a skeletal level.
MRI'S
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is different from an X-RAY because it can show more than just the skeleton. An MRI machine is an excellent resource for seeing soft tissue damage, specifically the spinal cord and nervous system.
CT SCANS
A CT (Computer Tomography) Scan takes multiple X-Rays from various angles around the body, and a computer creates various body cross-sections. This process creates a very clear picture of not only skeletal damage but soft tissue damage as well. It is particularly useful for identifying internal injuries.
The Chiropractic Diagnosis
By combining the information gathered from your provided history and chiropractic examination, your doctor will make a diagnosis.
Important note: There are universal fundamentals of chiropractic care that spans across every chiropractor's personal practice, but like any other profession they have their own knacks and spin on certain elements. Ask questions. Your chiropractor will be eager to answer your questions. The chiropractors at Arrowhead Clinic firmly believe that the more informed you are the better.
At this point, the chiropractor will reveal any abnormalities discovered during the examination.
If necessary, the chiropractor may suggest receiving an x-ray or undergoing an MRI. This will be based on your chiropractor's discretion after finishing the examination.
Once the chiropractor has gathered sufficient information, they will decide if chiropractic care will benefit your recovery and wellbeing.
If so, you and your chiropractor will begin specific and individualized treatment designed to relieve your pain.
Treatments
Arrowhead Clinic understands that you are an individual with your own unique condition.
We also know that there is no universal technique to return you to health.
That is why we utilize a variety of different chiropractic care treatments, ranging from The Diversified Technique to Flexion Distraction.
After your chiropractor reaches an accurate diagnosis they will create a treatment plan designed specifically for you to help return you to full health.
Contact Us
If you are in pain and suffering due to a personal injury or car accident, do not hesitate another moment.
Arrowhead Clinic offers a free consultation to all new patients. Your chiropractor will diagnose your condition and formulate a treatment plan that works for you.
Call us today for your free consultation or fill out the form below.
Together, we can work towards returning you to good health and enjoying your life.
Find a Local Arrowhead Clinic near you, today!