Knowing what to expect at your first chiropractic visit can make the day feel a lot calmer. This page explains each step at HealthSource Chiropractic of Roseland, from the front door to the moment you decide on care. We also cover what to wear, what to bring and how insurance works, so nothing catches you off guard.
How your first chiropractic visit works, step by step
Every new patient meets Dr. Jenna Patel, D.C., the owner and treating chiropractor. The visit follows a set order, and each step builds on the one before it. As a result, the plan you hear at the end comes from your own history and exam.
Arrive, take a short tour and fill out your health history
You will find us at 12 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 1, in the Downtowne At Roseland complex. When you arrive, we welcome you and show you around the office. Next, you fill out a health history questionnaire. Take your time with it, because your answers guide the rest of the visit.
Sit down with Dr. Patel for a consultation
Then you sit down with Dr. Patel to talk about what brought you in. This is a real conversation about your symptoms, your goals and your questions. Dr. Patel speaks English, Hindi and Gujarati, so you can use the language that feels easiest.
A physical exam, with X-rays only if clinically needed
After the consultation, Dr. Patel does a physical exam. She checks your posture, how well you move and where you feel pain. X-rays are not automatic. We take them here in the office only when your history and exam show a clinical need. You can read how X-rays work on MedlinePlus.
Your report of findings and care plan
Finally, Dr. Patel goes over what she found and answers your questions. She also explains a personalized care plan before any care starts. Depending on your exam, the plan may include hands-on adjustments, soft tissue work, exercise rehab, or nutrition and lifestyle guidance. Her aim is to find the source of the problem, not only to ease the symptoms.
What to wear and bring to your first chiropractic visit
Wear comfortable clothes that let you bend, twist and reach. Loose pants or athletic wear work well for the posture and movement checks. It also helps to bring a few things with you:
- Your insurance card, if you plan to use insurance.
- A list of the medications and supplements you take.
- Reports from any earlier X-rays or MRIs.
- Questions you want to ask Dr. Patel.
How long does a first chiropractic visit take?
Your first chiropractic visit has more steps than later visits, so plan for some extra time. However, the exact length depends on your needs and on whether you need X-rays. If you have to plan around work, call (973) 200-2424 and ask how much time to set aside. We can also help you pick a time that fits your day.
We see patients Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM. On Tuesday we are open from 2 PM to 6 PM, and on Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM. We are closed on Saturday and Sunday.
No pressure, only clear choices
Many people worry about being pushed into a long plan or extras they did not ask for. We understand that concern. At your first visit, Dr. Patel explains her findings and the plan, and then you decide. You can ask about costs, take time to think, or check with your insurance before you start. If you want a neutral overview of chiropractic care first, the NIH guide to chiropractic care is a good place to start. Keep in mind that this page is educational and is not a diagnosis. Your own answers come from the exam.
Insurance, financing and the new-patient visit
We accept most major insurance plans. Zocdoc lists Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Medicare and UnitedHealthcare among the plans we take, so please call to verify yours. We also offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit, plus the APEX discount plan. You can compare insurance and financing options before you come in.
Ask about our new-patient visit: consultation, exam and X-rays if clinically needed. It is for new patients only. It does not apply to Medicare, Medicaid, other federal healthcare program patients or ACN members. For the details, see our new patient offer.
Want to know more about who you will see? Read about Dr. Patel, her training and her approach. When you are ready, book your appointment online or call us at (973) 200-2424.