Examination
Next, Dr. Aardema will escort you to the examination room where you will prepare for the examination by changing into a gown. The gown allows Dr. Aardema to investigate your spine and muscles of the back while completely covering you for your comfort and privacy. If you suffer from a problem in the upper or lower extremities, Dr. Aardema will evaluate them as well. The purpose of the examination is to locate and detect spinal subluxations by doing a number of different tests. These include Surface EMG and Thermography, range of motion of the spine, postural evaluation and spinal palpation (feeling the spine by hand to determine areas of stress and irritation). If  necessary, Dr. Aardema will take x-rays to evaluate your current level of spinal health and its connection to your current health concerns.

Before you leave, you’ll pay for the examination and schedule a Report of Findings visit. Our office policy requires you to pay for all fees at the time of the visit, whether or not you have insurance coverage. If you have insurance that covers chiropractic, we will be happy to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, though payment still might be due at the time of service. Your initial visit will take 1 hour and 30 minutes (less if you have filled out your new patient forms in advance).