Whole body assessment

Available at Lake Forest, San Diego, and Spring Valley

A whole body assessment is the thorough exam that starts your care: a conversation about your history, then checks of your posture, movement, joints, muscles and nerves. It shows your chiropractor where your problem is coming from, not just where it hurts, so your care plan fits you.

Now welcoming new patients

Why we look at the whole body

Pain is not always where the problem starts. A sore knee can be linked to how your foot meets the ground or how your hip moves. Neck pain and headaches can be tied to how you sit at a desk. Tingling in the hand can come from the neck, the wrist or both.

That is why your first visit at Greenlight looks beyond the painful area. Understanding how your whole body moves helps your chiropractor find the source and choose care that addresses it.

Your history

The assessment starts with a conversation. Your chiropractor will ask about:

  • What you are feeling, where, and how it affects your day
  • When it started and what makes it better or worse
  • Past accidents, injuries and surgeries
  • Previous chiropractic or other care
  • Existing conditions, such as arthritis
  • Your work, how you sit and stand, how you sleep, and your activities and sports

Bring a list of your medications and any imaging reports you already have.

Posture

Your chiropractor looks at how you stand and sit from the front, back and side: the position of your head, the level of your shoulders and hips, the curves of your spine and how your weight is distributed. Posture often explains why certain muscles are overworked and others are weak.

Movement

Next comes how you move. Your chiropractor checks the range of motion in your neck, back and other joints and watches for any side you favor. They also notice everyday movements: how you walk into the room, sit down, stand up, and get on and off the table.

Orthopedic and neurological checks

Orthopedic tests gently stress specific joints, muscles and ligaments to identify which structure is involved and narrow down the cause. When symptoms suggest a nerve is involved, simple checks of reflexes, sensation and strength help show where it may be irritated.

Your chiropractor also uses palpation, feeling along the spine and muscles for areas that are restricted, tender, in spasm or not moving well.

Imaging when it is needed

X-rays are taken only when they are clinically needed, for example after a fall or accident, or when pain travels into the arms or legs. If your chiropractor thinks you need an MRI or another type of care, they will explain why and help you take the next step.

Your results and your plan

Your chiropractor explains what they found in plain language and what it means for you. Together you agree on a plan, which may include adjustments, soft tissue work, therapies available at your office, exercises and changes to daily habits.

Your progress is checked along the way, and the plan changes as you improve.

Before your first visit

You can make the most of your assessment by noting when your symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and anything you have already tried. Bring your insurance card, a list of medications, and any X-ray, MRI or other imaging reports. If an injury happened at work or in a car accident, bring any claim information you have.

Feel free to bring questions. Your assessment is also your chance to understand what is going on and what your options are.

Book whole body assessment

Offered at 3 Greenlight offices.

Your questions,
answered

About whole body assessment at Greenlight.

How long does a whole body assessment take?

Plan for extra time at your first visit so there is room for the conversation and the exam. Your office can tell you what to expect when you book.

Will I need X-rays?

Only if they are clinically needed. Many people do not need imaging.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes you can move in easily.

Will I be treated on the same day?

Often, yes. Many first visits include a first treatment once the assessment is complete.

Is the assessment part of a new patient visit?

Yes. Every new patient starts with a conversation and an exam to understand their symptoms and discuss next steps.