Reviewed by Dr. Maria Mahboob, D.C. — Doctor of Chiropractic and Lead Chiropractor at Divine Spine Burlington. ICPA-trained in pediatric and perinatal chiropractic care.

If you’ve been thinking about chiropractic care but you’re not sure what actually happens at your first visit — or you’ve had a confusing experience at a clinic before — this page walks you through exactly what your first appointment at Divine Spine Burlington looks like. No surprises. No high-pressure packages. A flat $27 fee for the new patient exam, and an honest assessment from Dr. Maria Mahboob.

What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Visit in Burlington

Your first appointment with Dr. Mahboob at our Burlington chiropractic clinic takes about 45 minutes. The goal is simple: figure out what’s actually going on, explain it to you in plain language, and give you a clear, honest next-step recommendation. You decide whether you want to move forward.

1. The intake (10 minutes)

You’ll fill out a short health history form when you arrive. This covers your current complaint, any past injuries, surgeries, or relevant medical history, and any medications you’re taking. Bring any recent imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT) on a disc, USB, or in a printout if you have it — it’s helpful but not required.

2. The conversation (10 minutes)

Dr. Mahboob will sit down with you and go through your history in person. Expect questions like: When did this start? What makes it worse? What makes it better? Have you tried anything for it already? How is it affecting your work, sleep, or daily life? This isn’t a script — it’s a real conversation. The more accurately you describe what you’re experiencing, the more accurate the assessment.

3. The examination (15 minutes)

Dr. Mahboob will perform a focused chiropractic assessment, which may include:

  • Postural analysis — how you stand, sit, and move
  • Range of motion testing — what your spine and joints can and can’t do comfortably
  • Orthopedic and neurological screening — targeted tests that help identify what’s been injured
  • Palpation — feeling for tight, restricted, or tender areas
  • ProAdjuster scan (if appropriate) — the computerized ProAdjuster has a sensor mode that maps joint motion before any adjustment is performed

If imaging is needed and you haven’t had recent X-rays, Dr. Mahboob will refer you to a Burlington-area imaging clinic.

4. The findings conversation (10 minutes)

This is the most important part of your first visit. Dr. Mahboob will explain — in plain language, not jargon — what she found. You’ll hear what’s likely going on, what’s not going on, and what may or may not be appropriate as a next step. Some patients are good candidates for chiropractic care. Some aren’t — and if that’s the case, you’ll be told that honestly, along with a suggestion for who you should see instead.

If chiropractic care may help, Dr. Mahboob will outline a possible care plan including frequency of visits, what each visit involves, and a realistic timeframe. Timelines vary from person to person based on the condition, how long it’s been going on, and how the body responds to care.

What’s Included in the $27 Exam

  • Full health history review
  • Postural and movement analysis
  • Orthopedic and neurological screening
  • ProAdjuster scan (if appropriate for your case)
  • Findings conversation and care plan discussion
  • An honest, no-pressure recommendation

It does not include a chiropractic adjustment at the first visit. We believe in assessing first, then recommending. If a same-day adjustment may be appropriate, Dr. Mahboob will discuss that with you, including the fee for the adjustment visit.

What to Wear, What to Bring

  • Wear: Comfortable clothing you can move in. Avoid heavy jewelry or thick belts that interfere with palpation.
  • Bring: A list of any medications you take, recent imaging if you have it, and your insurance information.
  • Don’t worry about: Showing up “in shape” or “having the right answers.” Show up as you are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Visit

Q: Will I be adjusted at my first visit?

Generally no. The first visit is for assessment and a findings discussion. If Dr. Mahboob believes a same-day adjustment may be appropriate after the exam, she’ll discuss that with you before anything is done.

Q: Do I need a referral from my family doctor?

No. Chiropractors in Ontario are primary contact practitioners — you can book a $27 new patient exam directly with our Burlington clinic without a referral.

Q: Is the $27 exam covered by insurance?

Many Ontario extended health plans cover chiropractic services. Bring your insurance details and we’ll help you understand what may be covered. Direct billing is available for many major Canadian insurers.

Q: Will I be pressured to sign up for a long care package?

No. We don’t sell packages at the new patient exam. You’ll receive an honest recommendation, the cost of follow-up adjustment visits, and the freedom to decide what makes sense for you.

Q: What if Dr. Mahboob doesn’t think chiropractic care will help me?

You’ll be told that — and given a recommendation for what may be a better fit, whether that’s a different healthcare professional, imaging, or further investigation.

Q: How long until I notice a difference?

Timelines vary widely from person to person. Some patients notice changes after a few visits; others take longer. Dr. Mahboob will give you a realistic conversation about what to expect for your specific case.

Related Pages at Our Burlington Clinic

Book Your $27 New Patient Exam in Burlington

Ready to find out what’s actually going on? Book your $27 new patient exam at Divine Spine Burlington. No referral needed. No pressure. Just an honest assessment from Dr. Maria Mahboob and a clear next-step recommendation.

Visit the Burlington clinic page for hours, location, and booking.