Why We Aim to Treat on the First Visit
Many new patients tell us they’ve previously attended an initial consultation elsewhere, only to be asked to return another day before treatment could begin.
At Oceanside Chiropractic, we understand that many of our patients lead busy lives, including those working demanding FIFO rosters or balancing family and work commitments.
Where it is clinically appropriate and safe to do so, we aim to begin treatment during your first appointment, helping you make the most of your visit.
Your safety always comes first. If further investigations or referrals are required before treatment, we’ll explain why and guide you through the next steps.
Your Initial Consultation
Whether you’re seeking care for back pain, neck pain, headaches, a sporting injury or movement restrictions, here’s what you can expect during your first visit.
1. Comprehensive Health History
We begin by getting to know you and your concerns.
We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, occupation, daily activities, exercise habits, previous injuries and any factors that may be contributing to your current presentation.
Understanding the full picture helps us tailor your care to your individual needs.
2. Physical Examination
Your chiropractor will perform a thorough assessment, which may include posture analysis, movement testing, orthopaedic assessments and neurological screening where clinically indicated.
These findings help us better understand how your body is functioning and guide the most appropriate treatment approach.
3. Findings & Clinical Recommendations
We’ll explain our findings in clear, straightforward language and discuss the treatment options available to you.
If imaging such as an X-ray or MRI is clinically indicated, we’ll explain why and provide the appropriate referral. If it’s appropriate to proceed with treatment on the day, we’ll discuss the proposed approach before commencing care.
4. Treatment
Where clinically appropriate, treatment may begin during your first appointment.
Depending on your individual presentation, your care may include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises, movement advice or other evidence-informed techniques suited to your needs.
You’ll also receive practical guidance to help you manage your condition between appointments.
Transparent Pricing & Booking
We believe booking your care should be straightforward.
There are no upfront online booking fees—you simply pay after your consultation.
Choosing Your Chiropractor
When booking, you’ll notice different consultation fees between our chiropractors.
Jean-Luc is the clinic director and brings extensive experience managing a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, sports injuries and rehabilitation cases.
Richard is a fully qualified chiropractor who provides thorough, patient-centred care with a strong focus on evidence-informed practice and personalised treatment.
Our consultation fees reflect each practitioner’s level of clinical experience, giving you the flexibility to choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an X-ray before I come in?
No. In many cases, imaging isn’t required before your first appointment. Your chiropractor will perform a comprehensive assessment first and determine whether additional investigations such as an X-ray or MRI are clinically indicated.
If imaging is appropriate, we’ll discuss this with you and arrange the necessary referral.
What should I wear to my first appointment?
Comfortable clothing is ideal. Activewear or loose-fitting shorts and a T-shirt allow us to perform movement assessments and treatment more comfortably where required.
What should I bring?
If you have any recent X-rays, MRI reports, specialist letters or other relevant medical information, please bring these along to your appointment.
How long does the first visit take?
Initial consultations generally take around 40–45 minutes. This allows time for a detailed history, thorough assessment, discussion of findings and, where appropriate, treatment during the same appointment.
