Your Chiropractic Examination in Austin, TX
A thorough evaluation is the foundation of effective chiropractic care. Here is what we look for and why.
Why the Examination Matters
At Family Health Chiropractic, we do not guess. Before recommending any treatment, Dr. Daniel Gonzalez conducts a complete physical and neurological examination combined with digital postural analysis and full-spine X-rays. This gives us an objective picture of your spine that makes it possible to identify the specific segments causing your problem and design a care plan with a clear rationale.
This level of detail is what separates a corrective chiropractic approach from a symptomatic one. Knowing exactly where the problem is, how severe it is, and what is causing it allows us to treat you more precisely and tell you honestly what to expect.
What Your Examination Includes
Health History
Your examination begins with a thorough review of your health history. We ask about your current complaint, how and when it started, what makes it better or worse, any prior injuries or surgeries, and your general health. This context shapes everything that follows.
Postural Analysis
We use digital posture analysis software to document your posture from the front and side. Postural distortions, such as head forward carriage, high shoulder, or pelvic tilt, often reflect underlying spinal problems and serve as measurable benchmarks for tracking your progress over time.
Orthopedic and Neurological Testing
Dr. Gonzalez performs a series of orthopedic and neurological tests to assess joint mobility, muscle strength, reflexes, and nerve function. These tests help identify the specific structures involved in your complaint and rule out conditions that may require referral to another provider.
Spinal X-Rays
Full-spine X-rays are a standard part of our initial examination. They allow us to see your actual spinal alignment, measure any curvature abnormalities, assess disc space, and identify structural changes that cannot be detected on examination alone. X-rays are not performed on pregnant patients or children 5 and under.
What We Look for on Examination
- Spinal misalignments (subluxations) creating nerve interference
- Loss of normal cervical, thoracic, or lumbar curvature
- Restricted joint mobility at specific spinal levels
- Disc space narrowing or early degenerative changes
- Scoliotic curves or pelvic imbalance
- Muscle weakness or asymmetry indicating nerve involvement
- Signs of disc herniation or nerve root compression
Same-Day Review of Findings
One of the hallmarks of care at Family Health Chiropractic is that Dr. Gonzalez reviews your examination findings with you the same day. You will leave your first appointment knowing exactly what was found, what it means, and what your care plan looks like. There are no vague assessments or pressure tactics. Just a clear, honest explanation of your spine and a practical plan to address it.
We serve patients across Austin including West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Bee Cave, Lakeway, Sunset Valley, Tarrytown, and Greater Austin. Same-week appointments are often available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a chiropractic examination at Family Health Chiropractic?
Your first visit includes a detailed health history, postural analysis, full spinal and neurological examination, and digital X-rays of the spine. Dr. Gonzalez reviews all findings the same day and presents a personalized care plan based on what he finds.
Are X-rays required at your first visit?
Yes. Digital X-rays are a required part of the initial examination. They allow Dr. Gonzalez to identify structural misalignments, rule out fractures or pathology, and design a care plan matched to your specific spinal findings. We do not X-ray pregnant women or children age 5 and under.
How long does the first visit take?
Most first visits take approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This allows enough time for a thorough examination and a same-day report of findings so you leave with a clear understanding of your spinal health and what options are available.
What if my examination reveals something that needs a different type of care?
Dr. Gonzalez will tell you directly. If your findings suggest a condition better addressed by a medical specialist, orthopedist, or neurologist, he will refer you appropriately. Honest assessment is a core part of how we practice.
GET RELIEF IN AUSTIN
Schedule Your Examination in Austin
Same-week appointments are often available. Call 512-347-8881 or request a time online.