Your First Visit to Horak Chiropractic & Acupuncture
We built this page so you arrive knowing exactly what to expect — no surprises, no uncertainty, just a clear path toward feeling better.
Whether you're coming in for back pain, headaches, pregnancy care, or you're simply curious about what chiropractic can do for you, your first appointment is designed to be thorough, unhurried, and genuinely useful. As a new patient chiropractor Lincoln NE families have trusted for years, we take the time to understand your full health picture before any care begins.
Here's everything you need to know before you walk through our door.
What Happens at Your First Chiropractic Visit
Many patients receive their first adjustment at this visit — though that decision is always made together, based on your exam findings and your comfort level.
01
Health History & Intake
Before your appointment, you'll complete a health history form covering your current concerns, past injuries, medications, and health goals. This gives Dr. Horak the context he needs to ask the right questions when you arrive.
02
Examination & Assessment
Dr. Horak will conduct a thorough physical examination — evaluating your posture, range of motion, spinal alignment, and any specific areas of concern. For some patients, this may include orthopedic or neurological testing to get a clearer picture of what's driving your symptoms.
03
Report of Findings
After your examination, Dr. Horak will walk you through what he found and what it means. He'll explain his recommendations in plain language, answer your questions, and outline a care plan before any treatment begins. You'll know exactly what we're doing and why.
Many patients receive their first adjustment at this visit — though that decision is always made together, based on your exam findings and your comfort level.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
Arriving prepared helps us make the most of your time.
If you forget something, don't worry. We can work through it together at the front desk.
Completed intake forms (see the link below to fill these out in advance)
A valid photo ID
Your insurance card, if applicable
Your FSA or HSA card, if you plan to use it for eligible services
A list of any current medications or supplements
Any relevant imaging you have on hand — X-rays, MRIs, or prior records
Returning patients focused on long-term spinal health and maintenance
Complete Your Intake Forms Before You Arrive
Filling out your forms ahead of time means less time in the waiting room and more time with Dr. Horak. We'll send you a link to your new patient paperwork when you schedule your appointment, or you can request it by calling or texting us at (402) 904-7179.
We Accept FSA and HSA for Eligible Care
Chiropractic adjustments and many of our other services qualify for FSA and HSA reimbursement, which means you can use pre-tax dollars to cover your care. Bring your FSA or HSA card to your appointment and we'll apply it directly at checkout. If you have questions about which services are eligible, give us a call and we'll help you sort it out before your visit.
How Long Will My First Visit Take?
Plan for approximately 15–30 min. minutes for your initial appointment. This includes your intake review, examination, report of findings, and — in most cases — your first adjustment. Follow-up visits are typically shorter, ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the services involved.
What Should I Wear?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing makes the examination and any hands-on care much easier. Athletic wear or casual clothes work well. You don't need to bring anything special — just dress so you can move freely.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions from New Patients
What happens at my first chiropractic visit in Lincoln?
Your first visit includes a full health history review, a physical examination, and a report of findings where Dr. Horak explains what he found and what he recommends. Most patients also receive their first adjustment at this appointment. The entire visit typically takes 45 to 60 minutes.
What should I bring to my first chiropractor appointment?
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, your FSA or HSA card if applicable, and a list of any current medications. If you have prior imaging like X-rays or MRI results, those are helpful to bring as well. Completing your intake forms before you arrive will also save time.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No referral is needed. You can schedule directly with us by calling, texting, or booking online. If your insurance requires a referral for coverage purposes, we recommend checking with your provider in advance — but it won't affect your ability to be seen.
Can I use my FSA or HSA at a chiropractor?
Yes. Chiropractic care is an FSA and HSA eligible expense in most cases. We accept FSA and HSA cards directly at checkout, making it easy to use your pre-tax health dollars for your care.
Is chiropractic care safe if I've never been adjusted before?
Chiropractic adjustments are safe and well-tolerated by the vast majority of patients, including children and pregnant women. Dr. Horak tailors every adjustment to the individual — your age, health history, and comfort level all factor into how care is delivered. If you have specific concerns, bring them up at your first visit and he'll address them directly.
Do you offer acupuncture for patients who don't want needles?
Yes. Our primary acupuncture method is needleless — we use electrical stimulation to activate acupuncture points without any needles involved. It's an excellent option for patients who are curious about acupuncture but have concerns about the traditional approach. You can learn more on our needleless acupuncture page.
Ready to Book Your First Appointment?
We see patients of all ages and at every stage of life, from infants to expectant moms to adults managing chronic pain. If you have questions before you schedule, call or text us at (402) 904-7179 — we're happy to help you figure out whether we're the right fit.
