If you have never been to a chiropractor — or if you have had mixed experiences elsewhere — knowing what the first visit actually involves can make a significant difference. At Mecham Chiropractic in Murray, UT, the first visit is designed around clarity: you will understand what was found, what it means, and what the plan is before any treatment begins.
Before You Arrive
New patient intake forms can typically be completed before the visit to save time in the office. These include a health history form covering your current complaint, past medical history, medications, and any previous imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT). If you have recent imaging, bringing the reports or discs to the first visit is helpful.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to your neck, back, and hips. You do not need to bring anything special — just the ability to describe your problem clearly.
Step 1: Consultation
The first visit begins with a conversation. Dr. Mecham will ask about your chief complaint — where it is, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and whether this is a new problem or something you have dealt with before. This history is not just intake paperwork — it directly shapes the evaluation that follows.
Questions commonly asked include:
- Did this start with an injury, or gradually?
- Is the pain constant or intermittent?
- Does it refer into the arm or leg?
- What makes it better — movement, rest, heat, ice?
- What have you tried so far and how did it help?
Step 2: Physical Examination
After the consultation, Dr. Mecham performs a targeted physical examination. The specific tests depend on your complaint — a neck problem will be evaluated differently than a low back problem or a shoulder injury.
A typical evaluation may include:
- Range of motion testing — how far you can bend, rotate, or extend
- Orthopedic tests — specific positions or movements that stress particular structures to identify what is involved
- Neurological screening — reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength testing to rule out or identify nerve involvement
- Palpation — hands-on assessment of joint restriction, muscle tension, and tenderness
- Postural and gait assessment — how you stand and move, which often reveals compensatory patterns
Step 3: Findings and Explanation
After the examination, Dr. Mecham explains what he found. This is not a brief "your back is out of alignment" summary — it is a specific explanation of which structures are involved, why they are likely causing your symptoms, and what the treatment approach will address.
If imaging is indicated — for example, if significant nerve symptoms, a history of trauma, or concern about pathology is present — that will be discussed before treatment begins, not after.
Step 4: First Treatment
If it is appropriate to treat on the first visit (and it usually is), treatment begins after you understand and agree with the plan. First treatments are typically conservative — especially for patients who are new to chiropractic or whose condition is acute.
Treatment may include:
- Spinal adjustments to restricted segments
- Soft tissue work for muscle guarding and trigger points
- Instrument-assisted techniques for sensitive areas
- Initial mobility or decompression exercises
Dr. Mecham checks in throughout treatment. If something is uncomfortable, the approach is adjusted. You are always in control of the pace.
Step 5: Care Plan Discussion
Before you leave, you receive a clear recommendation for how often to return and why. The plan is based on your condition — not a standard protocol. You will know what the target outcome is, approximately how long it should take, and what the re-evaluation checkpoints will be.
You also receive guidance for what to do at home — whether that is ice, a specific stretch, activity modification, or a targeted exercise. Most patients find this the most useful part of the first visit.
How Long Does the First Visit Take?
Plan for approximately 45–60 minutes for a new patient visit. Follow-up visits are typically 15–30 minutes depending on what is being treated.
Ready to Schedule?
Mecham Chiropractic is located in Murray, UT and serves patients from Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, Holladay, Millcreek, Sugar House, and across the Salt Lake Valley. If you are ready to come in, or if you still have questions, call us or schedule online.