At The Hetrick Center, we pride ourselves on delivering integrated, patient-centered care tailored to your personal needs. Whether you’re visiting for Chiropractic care, Physical Therapy, Aquatic Therapy, or Massage Therapy, we’re here to make your experience smooth, informative, and healing. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit for each of our services:
Chiropractic Care
Your initial chiropractic appointment begins with a thorough consultation. You’ll discuss your medical history, current concerns, and any symptoms you’re experiencing. This conversation helps us understand your goals and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Next, your chiropractor will perform a physical exam to assess your posture, range of motion, and any areas of pain or tension. Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, may be ordered if needed.
After the assessment, your chiropractor will explain their findings and outline a tailored treatment plan. You may also receive your first adjustment or other treatments, depending on your condition and comfort level.
Physical Therapy
Your first Physical Therapy session focuses on evaluation and goal-setting. You’ll meet with a licensed physical therapist who will review your medical history and discuss your specific challenges—whether it’s recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or improving mobility.
The therapist will perform a physical assessment to evaluate your strength, flexibility, balance, and movement patterns. They’ll use this information to create a customized treatment plan.
Before the session ends, you’ll be introduced to some exercises or techniques you can do both at your follow up appointments and at home to start your journey toward recovery.
Aquatic Therapy
If you’ve been referred for Aquatic Therapy, your first session will include a land-based evaluation to determine your specific needs and how water-based therapy can benefit you. The therapist will review your medical history and discuss your goals.
You’ll then transition to the pool area, where you’ll be introduced to the equipment and water-based exercises. The warm water environment provides low-impact resistance, making it ideal for reducing pain and improving mobility. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit, or other clothing items to wear in the pool, and a towel!
Check out this video to see some suggestions on what to wear in the pool – https://www.facebook.com/reel/440962159040983
(Our pool room has a large two shower head shower area, several changing rooms, and a bathroom for your convenience.)
Direct Access for Physical and Aquatic TherapyDid you know you don’t need a referral from your primary care physician to start physical therapy? At The Hetrick Center, we offer direct access to physical therapy, meaning you can schedule an appointment and begin treatment right away. This not only saves time, and money, but also allows you to address pain or mobility issues sooner, helping you get back to your daily activities faster. Our licensed physical therapists are highly trained to evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions. If further medical evaluation is needed, we will guide you to the appropriate specialist. Take advantage of this convenience to kickstart your recovery journey without delay. |
Massage Therapy
Your first massage therapy session begins with a brief consultation. You’ll discuss a brief medical history, areas of concern, and what you hope to achieve from the session—whether it’s relaxation, pain relief, or improved circulation.
Your therapist will explain the process, including the type of massage that best suits your needs. The therapist will leave the room for you to get undressed to your level of comfort and allow you to get on the massage table and under the sheets/blankets. After the session starts, your therapist will check in periodically to ensure the pressure and techniques meet your expectations. While our massage therapists are awesome, they are not mind readers; make sure to communicate throughout your massage if you need lighter or deeper pressure, they want to make sure that this time is beneficial for you.
Checking Out and Scheduling Future Appointments
At the end of your visit, stop by the front desk to schedule your upcoming appointments as outlined in your treatment plan. Our friendly staff will help you coordinate your schedule to ensure you stay on track with your care. Whether it’s several weekly physical therapy sessions, regular chiropractic adjustments, or a combination of treatments, planning ahead ensures consistency and optimal results.
Feel free to ask any questions to your provider, our front desk staff, or one of our billing specialists. We’re here to make the process as seamless as possible.
Combining Treatments for Optimal Care
One of the unique advantages of The Hetrick Center is our integrated care approach. Many patients find that combining multiple treatments—chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy and Aquatic Therapy exercises, and massage therapy—provides the most comprehensive and effective care.
For example, chiropractic care can align your body, improving the effectiveness of physical therapy exercises, while massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension and promote faster recovery. Aquatic therapy, with its low-impact environment, can complement both physical therapy and chiropractic care, offering a holistic approach to healing.
Our team works collaboratively to ensure that your treatment plans are synchronized, maximizing your progress and helping you achieve your health goals more efficiently. Don’t hesitate to discuss your interest in multiple treatments with your provider during your initial appointment.
General Tips for Your First Visit
- Arrive early: Give yourself 30 minutes to fill out any necessary paperwork and get acclimated to the facility.
- Wear comfortable clothing: This is especially important for physical and aquatic therapy.
- Bring documentation: If applicable, bring a referral, insurance information, and any relevant medical records.
- Communicate openly: Share your concerns, goals, and feedback to help us provide the best care possible.
At The Hetrick Center, our identity is that of a successfully-integrated, collaborative model of care that utilizes Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, state-of-the-art HydroWorx™ Aquatic Therapy, and Massage Therapy. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to wellness!