What to Expect on Your First Visit
We will welcome you with a warm smile. Your first visit may take up to 40 minutes. You’ll complete an intake form to document your current concern and health history. You’ll meet with Dr. Handly for a one-on-one consultation to discuss why you’re here. He will answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. Dr. Handly will explain how chiropractic works, and how it relates to your specific condition. If you’re comfortable with Dr. Handly’s explanations and agree to move forward; a spinal assessment and your first chiropractic adjustment will be initiated on this visit.
Dr. Handly uses: palpation, postural and gait analysis, neurological tests, instrumentation (thermography), leg length reactivity analysis, muscle testing to assess where, when and when not to make specific chiropractic adjustments. It is not always necessary to use high-tech imaging (MRI, Cat-Scan, X-ray). Dr. Handly will refer you for diagnostic imaging only if necessary.
Dr. Handly uses the most scientifically advanced chiropractic assessment method and the Activator instrument to make the necessary adjustments—without twisting or popping joints. The frequency of adjustments and how your body responds are influenced by factors such as emotional health, lifestyle, trauma history, age, and limiting beliefs. Pain and discomfort are your body’s warning signals, alerting you to stress or potential damage.” To reduce your pain and discomforts our goal is improve your body’s biomechanical integration with your nervous system enabling optimal body functions. There are 3 phases of care relief, stabilization and maintenance care to avoid relapse (Wellness care).
After Your Adjustment
I recommend rest when you can and avoiding heavy or strenuous activities. Your adjustment helps start your body’s natural healing and rebalancing process, and it needs time to respond.
Activator adjustments are very safe and gentle, with no negative side effects. Even though the adjustment feels light, it has a powerful effect. Chiropractic care is different from medicine or physical therapy—it’s a natural approach focused on careful assessment and precise adjustments.
Dr. Handly will also share simple things you can do in your daily life to support your care. When you stay consistent with the process, it can lead to lasting, long-term health benefits.