Your First Visit to Allen County Family & Sports Chiropractic
What to Expect During Your First Visit to Allen County Family & Sports Chiropractic with Dr. Michael Hartle
At Allen County Family & Sports Chiropractic, we know that visiting a chiropractor for the first time can feel a little intimidating or unfamiliar. Whether you’re coming in to find relief from chronic pain, recover from an injury, or simply explore ways to improve your overall health, I want to make sure your first visit with me, Dr. Michael Hartle, is comfortable, informative, and tailored to your unique needs.
Here’s what you can expect when you come to our clinic for your initial appointment.
Understanding Chiropractic Care at Allen County Family & Sports Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is all about helping your body move better and feel better—primarily by focusing on the spine and musculoskeletal system. At our clinic, I use safe, hands-on techniques like spinal adjustments to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support your body’s natural healing process.
Many of our patients come to us for conditions like lower back pain, neck stiffness, headaches, sports injuries, or just to maintain their wellness. Your first visit is a crucial step in building a personalized plan that fits your health goals.
What Happens During Your First Visit?
1. Getting to Know You: Health History and Intake
When you arrive, we’ll start with a detailed conversation about your health history. I’ll ask about your current symptoms, past injuries, lifestyle habits, and any treatments you’ve tried before. This helps me get a full picture of what’s going on and how best to help.
I encourage you to be open and thorough—this information guides everything we do moving forward.
2. A Comprehensive Physical Exam
Next, I’ll perform a physical exam that focuses on your spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system. This may include checking your posture, range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes. If needed, I’ll perform some orthopedic or neurological tests to identify exactly where your pain or dysfunction originates.
3. Imaging and Diagnostics (If Necessary)
Sometimes, I might recommend X-rays or other imaging studies to get a closer look at your spine or joints. This isn’t always required during your first visit, but if your condition calls for it, I’ll discuss the options with you and explain how it helps guide your treatment.
Your First Chiropractic Adjustment
Depending on what I find during the exam, I may perform your first adjustment right away or schedule it for a follow-up visit. The adjustment involves gentle, precise movements to realign your spine and joints, reduce tension, and improve function.
You might hear some popping or cracking sounds during the adjustment—that’s completely normal and comes from gas bubbles releasing in the joints. Most patients feel immediate relief or relaxation afterward, though you may experience some mild soreness for a day or two.
If you ever feel uncomfortable during the adjustment, please let me know so I can adjust my technique.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
To make your visit as smooth as possible, consider bringing:
- Any relevant medical records or previous imaging
- Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement
- A list of questions or concerns you want to discuss
Arriving a little early helps you complete any necessary paperwork and gives us time to chat before we get started.
After Your Visit: What to Expect
Many of our patients notice improvement right away, but true healing takes time and multiple sessions. I’ll often recommend simple stretches, exercises, or lifestyle changes to support your care between visits.
It’s normal to feel some soreness or mild fatigue after an adjustment—staying hydrated and resting will help you recover quickly.
Schedule Your Appointment with Dr. Michael Hartle
At Allen County Family & Sports Chiropractic, my goal is to help you feel your best and empower you to take charge of your health. Your first visit is the start of a partnership where we work together to relieve pain, improve function, and enhance your quality of life.
If you’re curious about chiropractic care or ready to schedule your first appointment, we’re here to welcome you and guide you every step of the way.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, or share your experiences with us. We look forward to helping you get back to doing what you love—pain-free and stronger than ever.