Your First Visit

Your initial visit will include of a through exam and consultation which will include your previous medical history. The purpose of this is to see if we can help you or not. If yours is a chiropractic case, treatment will begin that same day. Various therapies may be utilized in order to help get you out of pain as quick as possible and begin the healing process. X-rays may be scheduled if necessary. Not all new patients are x-rayed. This is determined on a case by case basis. This is determined from your examination findings, history and any recent traua you may have experienced. If x rays are recommended you will be refered to an outside imaging facility nearby where trained radiologist will review your images and write a detailed report of your findings.

On your second visit you will receive a report of your findings where Dr. Hans will explain what he found on your examination, what's wrong and how we can help. Additional recommendations may be made regarding, diet, home care instructions, nutritional supplements and other things you can do to get the best results and improve your overall health.

After your second visit to our office you'll will have a better understanding of your condition and why so many people are turning to chiropractic care as one of the safest, most cost effective forms of alternative healthcare available.

Because of its safety and success chiropractic care is the most popular form of natural health care. Published reports are documenting the benefits and patient satisfaction. A Canadian government study has shown that chiropractic care is more effective than conventional approaches to low back pain. Florida and Oregon research products have shown that those consulting a chiropractic doctor for work related injuries get well twice as fast and stay well longer. A U.S. government study revealed that care delivered by doctors of chiropractic was highly recommended for patients with acute low back pain. Even the journal of family practice recognizes the value of patient satisfaction delivered by contemporary chiropractic care.

Listed below are some key terms as they apply to the exam and consultation.

EMR - Electronic Medical Records: Whenever you go see a new doctor, the first thing they ask you is to fill out several "new" patient information forms. For most people, this is the worst part about going to see a new doctor. Since our office utilizes EMR(electronic medical records), all the paperwork is completed on a tablet PC. This makes it easier to fill out your patient information and store all your medical records in a safe place.

The Consultation and History: The consultation is important for both the doctor and the patient. During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and get involved with your healthcare. This will also allow your doctor to explain his role in your healthcare, and how chiropractic is beneficial to your health. During this time, prospective patients will also be asked about their past medical history, family history, current symptoms, diet, exercise and any accidents or falls, which, may be attributed to the condition of your spine, possibly causing your nervous system to mal-function.

The Examination: A Chiropractic examination may include any of the following components:

Inspection - This includes inspecting the skin for bruises, scarring, and edema (swelling), We also check posture and gait analysis as well as general appearance.

Palpation - This is when the doctor applies both hands to the skin and spine, comparing side to side, feeling for muscle tension, tenderness, or pain. If one side is more tender than another, it usually means there is a vertebra out of alignment, on that side.

Instrumentation - This will be the primary diagnostic instrument used to access the patient's musculoskeletal condition. The MyoVision 8000 S-EMG will be used here. See link near top of page.

Range of Motion - This is where the doctor will ask you to twist and bend, flex and extend, and rotate side to side. Looking for limited range of motion. Measured in degrees.

Orthopedic Test - These are different test designed to reproduce pain. Lets the doctor know weather the problem if ligamentous or muscular. Usually done at area of chief complaint.

Neurological Testing - These include muscle test, reflexes and derma tone test (skin sensation)

X-Rays / Diagnostic Imaging - X-rays are an excellent way for the doctor to see if there are any complicating factors that could be contra-indicated to the patient's condition. These include, fractures, osteoporosis, certain types of arthritis, bone spurs, decreased disc spaces just to name a few. X-ray's are also an excellent was to visualize the position of each vertebrae throughout the spinal column and see any loss of disc height or loss of spinal curves which can help the clinician determine which pase of degeneration you are in and how your x-rays compare to what's normal.

Duluth chiropractor Dr. Joseph Hans of Active Health and Wellness Center PC provides safe, effective chiropractic care for the Duluth Georgia area.