What to Expect During Your First Visit with Dr. Aaron Shoemaker

Visiting a chiropractor for the first time can feel a bit daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with holistic approaches to healthcare. But when you choose to work with someone like Dr. Aaron Shoemaker, you’re not just booking a spinal adjustment—you’re stepping into a partnership focused on your long-term health and wellness.

Dr. Shoemaker, a respected chiropractor based in Riggins, Idaho, brings a unique blend of expertise and compassion to his practice. With degrees in both Business Administration and Chiropractic from the University of Western States, he offers a thoughtful, patient-focused approach grounded in clinical skill and personalized care. He combines his deep understanding of the musculoskeletal, nervous, and immune systems with a love for the outdoors and a belief in the body’s natural ability to heal.

Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to optimize your physical well-being, this guide will walk you through exactly what to expect during your first visit with Aaron Shoemaker Chiropractor.

Setting the Stage: Booking Your Appointment

Before your initial appointment, Dr. Shoemaker's team will walk you through the intake process. You’ll be asked to complete a comprehensive health history form—either online or in-office—so he can better understand your unique health background, current symptoms, lifestyle habits, and overall goals.

Don’t be surprised if some questions go beyond just your physical health. Dr. Shoemaker believes in holistic care, which means he takes into account emotional stress, sleep patterns, nutrition, and activity levels—all of which influence how your body functions and heals.

The First Consultation: Listening, Understanding, and Educating

When you arrive at the clinic, expect a warm welcome. Dr. Shoemaker places a high priority on making patients feel comfortable and respected. Your consultation will begin with an in-depth conversation—not just about your symptoms, but about your lifestyle, medical history, and expectations.

This isn’t a rushed appointment. Dr. Shoemaker listens carefully to understand what brought you in and what outcomes you're hoping for. He might ask:

• When did your symptoms begin?

• Are there any activities that worsen or relieve the discomfort?

• Have you had any previous treatments?

• How is your overall stress, sleep, and activity level?

He’ll also explain the role chiropractic care can play in your recovery, clarifying how spinal alignment, nervous system function, and musculoskeletal balance work together to support your health.

The Physical Examination: Going Beyond the Surface

After the consultation, Dr. Shoemaker Chiropractor will conduct a detailed physical exam. His assessment may include:

• Posture and gait analysis

• Spinal palpation to detect any misalignments or subluxations

• Orthopedic and neurological testing

• Range of motion evaluation

• Muscle strength and reflex testing

These techniques help identify not only the source of your pain or dysfunction but also any contributing factors that may not be immediately obvious. For example, lower back pain could be linked to tight hip flexors, weak glutes, or poor alignment in the upper spine.

Dr. Shoemaker may also incorporate non-invasive diagnostic tools, like thermography or surface EMG, to further evaluate nerve interference or muscular imbalance.

Imaging: When Are X-Rays or MRIs Needed?

While not every patient requires imaging, in certain cases Dr. Shoemaker may recommend X-rays or MRI scans—especially if there’s a history of trauma, severe pain, or signs of underlying pathology. These images provide a deeper look into the structural integrity of your spine and surrounding tissues.

Dr. Shoemaker is careful to only order imaging when clinically necessary, adhering to a conservative, patient-first approach.

Review of Findings: Mapping Out Your Personalized Care Plan

Once the examination is complete (and imaging reviewed if applicable), Dr. Shoemaker will present a clear explanation of his findings. He doesn’t just give you a diagnosis and move on—he’ll take the time to help you understand what’s happening in your body and how chiropractic care can help.

Your personalized care plan will be tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and goals. It may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments to restore alignment and nervous system communication

• Soft tissue therapies, such as trigger point therapy or myofascial release

• Corrective exercises to strengthen weak areas and improve mobility

• Lifestyle recommendations, including posture training, ergonomic tips, sleep positioning, and more

• Nutritional guidance to support inflammation reduction and healing

Your progress will be monitored closely, and adjustments to your care plan will be made as your body responds and heals.

The First Adjustment: Gentle, Targeted, and Safe

If your condition doesn’t require further testing or imaging, and if Dr. Shoemaker feels it’s appropriate, your first chiropractic adjustment may happen during this initial visit.

Using hands-on or instrument-assisted techniques, Dr. Shoemaker will apply controlled, precise pressure to specific joints. The goal is to improve alignment, relieve pressure on nerves, and restore normal motion.

For first-time patients, he typically uses gentle, low-force techniques to ensure comfort and build trust. Don’t worry—Dr. Shoemaker always explains what he’s doing before performing any adjustment and ensures you feel safe and informed throughout the process.

After the Appointment: What Happens Next?

After your first visit, it’s normal to experience mild soreness, similar to what you might feel after a good workout. This is your body adjusting to a new alignment and increased movement.

Dr. Shoemaker encourages patients to stay hydrated, rest as needed, and pay attention to how their body feels over the next 24–48 hours. You’ll also receive guidance on what activities to avoid or modify to support the healing process.

Depending on your condition, your follow-up schedule may involve two to three visits a week initially, gradually reducing as your symptoms improve and stability is restored.

Education and Empowerment: A Core Part of Dr. Shoemaker’s Philosophy

One of the standout features of care with Aaron Shoemaker Chiropractor is his commitment to patient education. He believes the best results happen when patients are active participants in their recovery.

During each visit, you can expect tips, tools, and resources to help you build strength, improve posture, reduce stress, and avoid re-injury. Whether it’s showing you the right stretches or recommending a supportive pillow, Dr. Shoemaker’s goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need for lasting health.

Holistic Health for Every Stage of Life

Dr. Shoemaker’s care is not limited to back pain or spinal issues. He treats patients of all ages, from children with postural challenges to seniors with joint stiffness or athletes recovering from sports injuries. His approach addresses the entire person, making chiropractic care a tool not just for pain relief but for overall vitality.

His background in Business Administration also gives him a systems-based perspective—he sees the body as a complex, interconnected network, not just isolated parts. That’s what makes his treatments so effective for patients seeking not just short-term relief, but long-term transformation.

Final Thoughts: Your First Step Toward Healthier Living

Visiting Aaron Shoemaker Chiropractor in Riggins, Idaho, is more than just a healthcare appointment—it’s the beginning of a wellness journey. With his holistic methods, technical expertise, and down-to-earth manner, Dr. Shoemaker helps you reconnect with your body’s ability to heal, thrive, and stay resilient.

If you’re curious about chiropractic care or have been living with pain or discomfort, your first visit could be the breakthrough you’ve been looking for.

Ready to take control of your health? Book your first appointment with Dr. Aaron Shoemaker today and experience personalized chiropractic care rooted in science, compassion, and the healing power of nature.