Services & Techniques

So You’ve Never Been to a Chiropractor…

Growing up with a grandfather who was a chiropractor, I take for granted that I know how it works and don’t spend a lot of time thinking of what someone who HAS NOT been to a chiropractor would think or worry about. I thought it would be beneficial to go over this to hopefully put you at ease.

If you are reading this, perhaps you have never been to a chiropractor; or at least, you have not been to Nelson Chiropractic. Typically, new patients will call to schedule their first appointment, as more time is required. You can also email us by clicking here. We try very hard to make this as easy as possible for people with busy schedules. Once you arrive, you will be greeted by one of our staff with a smile. They will assist you to an exam room and collect any insurance you may have.

Some people find it is more affordable not to file insurance, and for others it is better to file. Each patient is different. If you do have insurance to file, our staff researches your insurance to provide you with information so you can decide if insurance or if self-pay is the best option for you. As this is done, you will complete a simple 2-page form. You can also find this form on our website and fill it out ahead of time if that is easier.

Once complete, the doctor and an assistant will begin taking a thorough history and perform a complete musculoskeletal exam including range of motion, orthopedic tests, and neurological tests. Based on these findings, I, Dr. Nelson, will explain what is going on and give my best recommendations. My approach is usually very straight forward. Most times, X-rays are not required. If after visiting with the patient I feel X-rays are best, they will be referred out.

Chiropractors in South Dakota are licensed physicians and portal of entry doctors. Both of those titles are topics for another discussion. Because of this, Doctors of Chiropractic are trained and can legally diagnose to treat patients in office or refer out accordingly. To diagnose, an exam is required for all new patients to be treated; most insurance companies even require this.

If care sounds logical and if the patient agrees, the patient will then be taken to an adjusting room to be treated. In today’s world with videos and click bait, it is not hard to find a chiropractor performing some mid evil torture technique. While the amount and different types of chiropractic techniques are endless, my goal with every patient is to use finesse – not blunt force, to get the spine to move more optimally. Typically, on the first visit, I am even more gentle. Most adjustments are less than 5 minutes. If certain exercises or nutrition applies, I will go over those. Once the visit is complete, patients will visit with our front office manager to handle any financial concerns and make additional appointments if necessary.

I often hear “Wow – this wasn’t near as bad as I expected’ or “huh – that isn’t any where near what I expected.” Chiropractic is safe, scientific, effective, and affordable. We want you to have a great experience. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.