When a new patient begins chiropractic treatment for the first time, it’s often likened to the process of a home inspection. The chiropractor has to “inspect” all areas of the body to understand what is not functioning as it should and inform the patient what exactly is wrong.

While a home inspection service looks at every nook and cranny of a property, a chiropractor has to look at every nook and cranny of the body to identify what needs to be fixed. This includes a full body inspection of every functional area of the body.

Head & Neck

The chiropractor begins by evaluating the upper neck and the head. If you feel tightness in these areas, this is where the doctor will create a plan for you to address the pain. Most patients visit a chiropractor to relieve pain in the upper neck area and it’s why an inspection must begin here.

Back & Torso

Next, the doctor will need to thoroughly evaluate the patient’s vertebrae. This is where most painful issues exist and a plan with the right adjustments can address this pain. The chiropractor will take a look at the entire spine, identify the pain points and then help you understand how to feel better.

Lower Back & Glutes

While the doctor will inspect the back, there’s also the area of the lower back. This is where you will mostly experience an adjustment where the chiropractor helps you twist your body in a motion that “pops” everything. When this area of the lower back is misaligned, patients experience a lot of pain.

Chiropractic Adjustment

Legs & Lower Body

Last but not least in the evaluation, the doctor will ask you if you have any pain in your legs and lower body. If yes, it will be included in the doctor’s inspection and treatment plan.

The chiropractor’s sole purpose is to help you find your pain and alleviate it with a treatment plan. A good chiropractor will also advise on your whole health, not just your pain points.

Whole Health Wellness

Whole health wellness goes outside of pain symptoms. With this type of plan, the chiropractor provides a kind “home warranty” for your body. They will look at your nutrition, behavioral habits, how active you are and get into your mental health, among other things.

If you’re interested in long-term health of your body and mind, the right chiropractor will set you up with a treatment plan that provides the ongoing support you need.

It’s Your First Visit – What Should You Do?

That very first visit can always be overwhelming and a little bit nerve-wracking, especially if you have never been to a chiropractor. The most important thing is to remain calm and know that you are in the hands of a professional. Once you get past the paperwork and insurance information, keep the focus on the plan to relieve your pain. That should be the number one priority for you and your chiropractor.


As you can see, an initial visit with a chiropractor is very similar to that of a home inspection. While a home inspector will provide you with a list of ailments for a home you are buying, a chiropractor will provide you with a list of ailments your body is feeling. Both professionals give you solutions and it’s up to you to follow the plan.