When we first work with a new patient, we feel it is very important to first have a conversation about the patient's health complaints, so we listen. One of our mentors once said, "If you listen to a patient long enough and carefully enough, they will tell you the problem." So much information can be gathered during this history taking process that we prefer to have the patient tell us as much about their symptoms as they'd like before we even start an examination. Of course, as health care professionals who work with the neuromusculoskeletal system, we perform a thorough examination before attempting to form a diagnosis and treatment plan. The same mentor of Dr. Chiara and Dr. Findura espoused the phrase: "minutes spent in examination save hours spent in treatment," for good reason.
Our neuromusculoskeletal system is made up of many different components and tissue types: bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles, tendons, fascia, and nerves (brain, brainstem, spinal cord, & peripheral nerves). These different tissues react differently to stresses and injury. They also react differently to various treatment methods. As such, we use different forms of treatment depending on the nature of the injury and what tissues are involved.
Therefore, on your first visit, we take our time to try to come up with the best diagnosis and solution for your specific problem(s). We perform a detailed biomechanical analysis of the structure and function of the area in question as well as any areas that may be involved through various kinetic chains and myofascial slings in order to accurately diagnose your problem. Many patients remark that it is the most thorough physical examination they've ever received. We don't do it to impress you, but rather, to help us get great outcomes and results in less time.
For a new patient examination, we ask that you bring any available medical imaging studies & reports (x-ray, MRI, CT scan, etc.) as well as any insurance and claim information. If your insurance plan requires a referral from your primary care physician for chiropractic and/or physical therapy services, please have the referral form made out to "Family Chiropractic Works" and specify "chiropractic" and "physical therapy". Please wear or bring a set of gym clothes (preferably shorts, tights, or tight fitting sweatpants without any metal) and please remove all jewelry when you come for your first visit. We look forward to the challenge of trying to determine if we can help with your neuromusculoskeletal complaints.
