Your First Visit
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Welcome. Here's what to expect so you can get the most out of your first appointment.
Before you arrive
Complete your intake forms. If you received them electronically, fill them out and submit before your visit. If not, please arrive 15 minutes early to complete them in the office.
Bring your imaging. If you've had X-rays, MRI, CT, or ultrasound related to your problem, bring the reports and images (CD or digital access) if you have them. If your imaging was done at another facility, request that the images be sent to us ahead of time.
Bring a medication list. All current medications, doses, and supplements.
Wear comfortable clothing. I'll need to assess how you move, and I'll need access to the area of concern. Athletic wear or loose clothing works well. You won't need to change into a gown for most visits.
What happens during the visit
We talk first. I want to hear your story. When did this start? What makes it better or worse? What have you tried? What are your goals? Take your time. This is the most important part.
Then I put my hands on you. A thorough osteopathic structural exam. I assess how your body moves, where it's restricted, what the tissue quality feels like, and how the different regions relate to each other. This gives me a picture that imaging can't provide.
Then I treat. Osteopathic manipulative medicine on the first visit. I address what I find on exam. Many patients notice improvement the same day.
Then we make a plan. Based on the exam and your response to treatment, I'll explain what I think is going on, what I recommend, and what to expect going forward. If additional diagnostics, injections, or other interventions are indicated, we'll discuss those together. No surprises.
How long is the first visit?
Plan for 60 minutes. Some visits run slightly shorter, some slightly longer. The first visit is intentionally unhurried. I want to understand your whole picture, not just the part that hurts.
What to expect after
Some patients feel significantly better right after OMM. Some feel a bit sore for 24 to 48 hours before feeling better (similar to how you might feel after a good workout). Both responses are normal.
Stay hydrated. Keep moving gently. Avoid intense exercise on the day of treatment.
Cancellation policy
We ask for at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. As a solo practice, each appointment slot is valuable and a late cancellation means someone else who needed that time didn't get it.