What to Expect on Your First Visit to Premier Chiropractic
Before You Arrive
You can save time at check-in by downloading and completing our new patient paperwork ahead of your visit. If you would rather fill it out in the office, plan to arrive about 15 minutes early. Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card if you have one, and any imaging or medical records related to your current symptoms. If you were injured in an auto accident, bring your auto insurance information and the contact details for your attorney if you have one.
Step 1: Consultation with Dr. Schlenger or Dr. Cazares
Your first visit begins with a one-on-one consultation. We sit down with you, listen to your story, and learn about your symptoms, your medical history, your daily activities, and your goals. We want to understand not just what hurts, but how the pain is affecting your life. This conversation usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Comprehensive Examination
Next, we perform a chiropractic and orthopedic examination tailored to your symptoms. This typically includes posture analysis, range of motion testing, palpation of the spine and affected joints, neurological screening such as reflexes and muscle strength, and orthopedic tests specific to your complaint. The exam is thorough but it should not be painful.
Step 3: Diagnostic Imaging if Needed
Based on your history and exam findings, we may recommend X-rays or refer you for an MRI. Imaging helps us see what is happening structurally and rule out conditions that would change our treatment plan. We do not order imaging by default. We only order it when the clinical picture suggests it will change how we care for you.
Step 4: Report of Findings
Once we have reviewed your history, exam, and any imaging, we sit down with you and explain what we found in plain language. We will show you exactly what is going on, what we believe is causing your symptoms, and what we recommend. You will know the proposed treatment plan, how long we expect care to take, and what your role is in your recovery.
Step 5: First Treatment
In most cases we can begin treatment the same day. Treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercises, or modalities such as electrical stimulation or ice. We tailor the first treatment to what you can tolerate comfortably on day one. We are gentle with new patients.
How Long Does the First Visit Take?
Plan for about 45 minutes to one hour. Follow-up visits are usually 15 to 20 minutes.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable clothing you can move in. Avoid heavy belts or large buckles. We provide a gown if you prefer not to be adjusted in your street clothes.
Does the Adjustment Hurt?
Most patients describe chiropractic adjustments as a quick stretch followed by immediate relief. If you have acute pain or are nervous, let us know. We have gentle techniques including instrument-assisted adjustments that do not require any twisting or popping.
Insurance and Payment
We accept most major insurance plans and we bill auto insurance directly for personal injury cases. For cash patients we offer transparent flat pricing for the initial visit. If you have questions about coverage, call us at (209) 477-7777 and we will verify your benefits before you come in.
Hablamos Español
Dr. Cazares y nuestro equipo bilingüe están listos para atenderle en español. No dude en llamarnos.
Ready to Schedule?
Call (209) 477-7777 or visit our contact page to request a same-day appointment. We are located at 4560 N. Pershing Ave, Ste. A, Stockton, CA 95207, with hours Monday through Thursday 11am to 7pm, Friday 10am to 7pm, and Saturday 9am to 11am.