Patient Forms
Upon entering our office our receptionist will greet you and welcome you as a member of our family. We will request you fill our patient forms located in the New Patient Center which you can print out and fax to 940-565-6655 or bring with you. We may have some additional forms, including privacy, that are specific to your symptoms or health concern. The paperwork provides us with general information about yourself and your condition.
Consultation
Next you will have a consultation with Dr. Robert Howell to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, as well as potential treatment options. Your first visit is designed for Dr. Howell to learn more about you, your condition and your expectations to determine whether chiropractic care will you meet your goals.
Examination
After your consultation, Dr. Howell will perform a complete chiropractic examination testing your reflexes, your ability to turn and bend as well as other standard neurologic, orthopedic, postural, and physical examinations. Nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
X-Ray Studies
Your specific condition may require us to take x-rays to to get a full evaluation of a patient. X-rays help us rule out more serious conditions or assist us in developing the most effective treatment plan for you. Most people are amazed once they see their x-rays and can often immediately identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
Once your examination and any needed x-rays are obtained, you will be given an appointment to return, usually the next day, to receive a Report of Findings and recommendations for treatment.
If you are in pain, Dr. Howell may order some physical therapy and/or supplements that are known to reduce pain and increase healing. Prior to leaving, you will be instructed on a home support program to be conducted at home. This may include ice or heat application instructions, avoidance of certain activities or positions, as well as home exercises and/or stretches.
Report of Findings
Once all the information and examinations have been performed, Dr. Howell will review the results of your exam and analyize your x-rays so he can give you a report of findings at your very next visit to answer the four most popular questions:
- Can you help me?
- What do you recommend that I do to get better?
- How much is it going to cost?
- How long do you think it will take?
After discussing your history and your goals, the findings on your exam and reviewing any x-rays or tests done with you, Dr. Howell will discuss recommendations with you. If you have a condition that requires care with other providers, the doctor will tell you. If Dr. Howell believes he can help you, he will recommend treatment and a wellness program.
Treatment
Patients will generally be provided with their first treatment at the conclusion of the Report of Findings appointment. This may include spinal adjustments, physicaltherapies, soft tissue therapies (massage, trigger point release) and nutrition support. Treatment is interactive with you so you can express any concerns you have about the style of adjustment you will be most comfortable with.
Wellness Program
Once you have achieved relief from the symptoms that brought you to our office and you desire an overall wellness lifestyle, our wellness team (Dr. Howell, Dr. Surprise and staff) will work with you to create good habits and routines that support your success. Every body is unique and different and therefore everyone requires a unique and customized wellness plan. The foundation of our overall wellness lifestyle is maintaining healthy posture and good spinal alignment, eating a healthy diet, taking supplements, keeping your weight under control with both diet and exercise and stress relief.