Your First Visit – What to Expect at Living Chiropractic in Chelsea Heights
Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can feel like a big step. At Living Chiropractic, we aim to make your experience comfortable, informative, and tailored to you. From your first interaction with our team to your initial adjustment, every part of your visit is designed with care and clinical precision.
Here’s what to expect at your first chiropractic appointment in Chelsea Heights:
1. A Warm Welcome & Health Intake
You’ll be greeted by our friendly team and asked to complete a short health history form. This helps us gain a full understanding of your current health, your concerns, and any contributing lifestyle factors.
Already had imaging done? Let us know.
If you have previous scans, bring them along if possible. If not, we can request them directly from providers like iMED, Capitol, or Marina—no stress.
2. Private Consultation with Your Chiropractor
Next, you’ll meet with your Gonstead chiropractor for a one-on-one consultation. We take time to understand:
Your symptoms and how they affect daily life
Any previous injuries, falls, or accidents
Lifestyle habits, posture, sleep, and stress
Previous treatments and their outcomes
This conversation allows us to build a full understanding of your health history—not just the symptoms you’re experiencing now.
3. Change Room & Postural Observation
You’ll be asked to change into a gown so we can accurately observe your spine without clothing interference. From the moment you move, your chiropractor will assess how your body functions—looking at posture, head tilt, shoulder position, spinal curves, and muscular balance.
4. Comprehensive Gonstead Assessment
We use the Gonstead System, a thorough and precise method of chiropractic analysis. Your assessment may include:
Instrumentation – A temperature-sensing device to detect signs of inflammation and nerve irritation
Static Palpation – Feeling for swelling, tightness, or misalignments in your spine while you remain still
Motion Palpation – Checking the movement of each vertebral segment to detect restrictions or misalignment
Orthopaedic & Neurological Tests – To assess joint function, nerve integrity, and reflexes
Spinal X-rays (if required) – Taken onsite and bulk-billed through Medicare for eligible patients
5. Clinical Diagnosis & Recommendation
After completing your assessment, your chiropractor will explain the diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your condition and clinical findings.
We don’t guess. We assess.
If chiropractic care is suitable, we’ll explain the approach we’ll take. If your case requires referral or co-management, we’ll guide you clearly on the next steps.
6. Your First Adjustment (If Appropriate)
If it’s safe and clinically indicated, you may receive your first chiropractic adjustment during your visit. We use the Gonstead technique, a gentle yet precise hands-on method known for its accuracy and effectiveness. Our advanced chiropractic tables are designed for comfort and precision.
7. What to Expect After Your Adjustment
Most patients feel some degree of improvement after their first adjustment. Others may experience mild soreness as the body begins to adapt and inflammation reduces. This is a normal response as your nervous system starts to communicate more effectively with the rest of your body.
Each adjustment builds on the last—helping to restore normal spinal movement and reduce pressure on affected nerves.
Post-Adjustment Care Tips
Take a short 3–5 minute walk after your appointment
Use ice (not heat) to reduce inflammation—wrap in a towel and apply for 10 mins on / 10 off / 10 on
Avoid prolonged sitting or slouching
Stay mobile to support the healing process
Follow any specific instructions provided by your chiropractor
Why Locals Choose Living Chiropractic
✅ Experienced Gonstead Chiropractors in Chelsea Heights
✅ Full spinal assessments—no rushed appointments
✅ Medicare-covered X-rays onsite
✅ Serving all ages—from newborns to seniors
✅ Over 20 years of trusted care in Bonbeach, Carrum, Aspendale & surrounds
