Initial Phase of Care
Patient Forms
Upon your entering our office, our patient coordinator will welcome you as a member of our family. Prior to your first appointment, we will request that you complete our patient forms located in the New Patient Center on this website. These forms provide us with your health history and information on your condition.
Consultation
Next, you will have a consultation with Dr. Dowdy, D.C. to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, and potential treatment options. This initial visit is designed for Dr. Dowdy to learn more about you, your condition, and expectations to determine if and how chiropractic care can meet your goals.
[ Examination ]
After your consultation, Dr. Dowdy will perform a complete chiropractic examination testing your reflexes and flexibility. Other standard neurological, orthopedic, postural, and physical tests will be performed as well. However, nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
[ X-Ray/Imaging Studies ]
Depending on your specific condition, we may order X-rays or other imagings. These will help us develop the most effective treatment plan for you, and alert us to any serious spinal conditions. Most people are amazed once they see their results up close.
Report of Findings
Once the information is collected and examinations are performed, Dr. Dowdy will give you a detailed report of all findings on a second visit and answer any questions including, but not limited to:
How can you help me?
How often do I need to come in?
What does treatment entail?
After reviewing your health history, goals, and examining your spine and imaging results, we will discuss recommendations and notify you if your condition requires care with other providers, or if further imaging/testing must be done. If we do accept you for care, all costs and financial arrangements will be clearly explained (with or without insurance) before care is initiated.
[ Treatment ]
At the conclusion of the Report of Findings appointment, you can choose to experience your first treatment. This may include spinal adjustments, therapeutic exercises, and/or passive therapies. Treatment is interactive, so you can express concerns about the different styles of treatment at any time.
Prior to your leaving, the doctor will suggest other protocols to incorporate outside of the office. If you are in pain when you first come into our office, this may include: ice or heat application instructions, certain activities or positions to avoid, and at home exercises and/or stretches. Every person is unique; therefore everyone requires a customized plan.