If you've never seen a chiropractor before — or you've seen one somewhere else — it's natural to wonder what you're walking into. Here's what your first visit to the studio actually looks like, from the moment you arrive.
It starts with a conversation
Restored Living is a private, one-to-one studio, so it's just you and me. The first part of the appointment is talking. I'll ask about what brought you in, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and how it's affecting your work, sleep, sport and family life. I'll also ask about your general health, past injuries, any medications and any scans or reports you've had. None of this is a formality — your history often tells me more than any single test.
Then we look at how you're moving
The physical assessment is guided by what you've told me, so it varies from person to person. Depending on your presentation, it may include:
- Looking at your standing posture from the front and side
- Checking how your spine, hips and shoulders move
- Neurological checks such as reflexes, sensation and strength, where appropriate
- Orthopaedic tests relevant to your area of concern
- Looking at neighbouring regions that may be relevant to the picture
You'll stay comfortably dressed throughout — loose, comfortable clothing is ideal. If anything feels uncomfortable, tell me and we'll adjust or stop.
Talking through what I've found
Once the assessment is done, I'll explain my findings in plain English — what I've noticed, what I think may be relevant, and what I'm less sure about. If chiropractic care looks appropriate, I'll outline the options, including the techniques I might use, how they feel, and a reasonable plan to start with. You're always free to ask questions, take time to think, or decline anything you're not comfortable with.
If your history or findings suggest something that needs a different kind of care — your GP, imaging, a physiotherapist or a specialist — I'll tell you that directly and help you get there.
Ready for your first visit?
No referral needed. Longer initial consultations at the private Casuarina studio.
What happens next
Where it's appropriate and you're happy to go ahead, we may begin care in the same appointment. From there, any plan is reviewed at regular reassessments rather than locked in from day one. Some people need only a short period of care; others choose to continue for longer. It depends on your findings, your progress and your goals.
If you'd like more detail, take a look at your care at Restored Living, or browse our frequently asked questions.
Dr Adam Williams is a chiropractor in practice since 2007 and founder of Restored Living Chiropractic in Casuarina, NSW. More about Adam
This article is general information only and not a substitute for individual assessment.
