If you’ve been putting off chiropractic care because you’re not sure what to expect, this episode is for you. Dr. Matt Eiken of The Mauldin Clinic in Mauldin, South Carolina walks you through every step of a first chiropractic visit, from the initial consultation to the examination and beyond.
Dr. Eiken understands that the unknown can feel intimidating, and his goal is to make sure you feel informed and comfortable before you ever walk through the door. Whether you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or just curious about chiropractic care, this episode removes the mystery and replaces it with clarity.
Tune in to learn what questions you might be asked, what a typical exam involves, and why that first visit is really about understanding your unique needs as a patient.
Hey there, and welcome back to the podcast. I’m Doctor Matt Eiken from The Mauldin Clinic here in Mauldin, South Carolina, and today we’re talking about something I get asked about all the time — what actually happens during your very first chiropractic visit.
And honestly, I love this question. Because I think a lot of people put off coming in — not because they don’t want help — but because they just don’t know what to expect. The unknown can feel a little intimidating. So today I want to pull back the curtain and walk you through the whole thing, step by step, so that if you’ve been on the fence, maybe this is the episode that gets you through the door.
Alright, let’s start at the very beginning.
When you walk into The Mauldin Clinic for the first time, the first thing we’re going to do is sit down and talk. That’s it. No cracking, no adjusting — not yet. We want to hear your story. Where does it hurt? How long has it been going on? Did something specific happen, or did the pain just kind of creep up on you over time? Has it been getting worse? Does anything make it better or worse?
This conversation matters a lot. Because every person who walks through our doors is different. Your back pain is not the same as your neighbor’s back pain, even if it feels similar. So we take the time to actually listen.
Now, here’s something I want you to know going in — we’re going to ask about your full health history. That includes past injuries, surgeries, medications, all of it. This isn’t us being nosy. This helps us make sure we’re creating the safest and most effective plan for you specifically.
After we talk, we move into the physical examination. This is where things get a little more hands-on, but still nothing dramatic. We’re going to look at your posture, check your range of motion — basically how far you can move in different directions — and we’ll do some orthopedic and neurological tests. These are simple things like asking you to bend forward, turn your head, or checking your reflexes.
What we’re doing is building a picture. We’re figuring out what’s actually going on structurally — where there might be restricted joints, muscle tension, or areas where the spine just isn’t moving the way it should.
Sometimes we’ll recommend taking x-rays. Not always — but when we do, it’s because seeing the actual structure of your spine helps us be much more precise with your care. We want to know what we’re working with before we do anything.
Here’s the thing that surprises a lot of first-time patients — depending on what we find, you may actually receive an adjustment on that very first visit. Or we may want to take a little more time to review everything before we start. Either way, we’ll explain exactly what we’re doing and why. You’re never going to be in the dark.
If we do adjust you that day, here’s what to expect. You’ll lie on the table, we’ll position you comfortably, and we’ll apply a gentle, controlled movement to the specific joints that need attention. You might hear a pop. That sound is just gas releasing from the joint — completely normal, completely harmless. Most people feel a sense of relief pretty quickly. Some people feel a little sore the next day, kind of like after a good workout. That’s normal too, and it typically passes within a day or two.
Before you leave, we’ll talk about next steps. We’ll give you a clear picture of what we found, what we recommend, and how we think we can help. There’s no pressure. You ask your questions, we answer them honestly, and then you decide what feels right for you.
So if I had to sum it all up — your first visit is really just a conversation, an evaluation, and a plan. It’s not scary. It’s not painful. And it’s designed to give you answers that you’ve maybe been looking for for a long time.
If you’ve been dealing with back pain, neck pain, headaches, or you just feel like something is off and you can’t quite put your finger on it — come see us. We’d love to help.
You can reach The Mauldin Clinic right here in Mauldin, South Carolina. Give us a call, visit our website, or just stop by. Doctor Matt Eiken and the whole team are here for you.
Thanks so much for listening today. We’ll see you next time.
I've had right shoulder issues for the past year and 1/2 and it was really beginning to affect my activities such as tennis and the gym and even working around the yard. A friend told me about shockwave therapy so I found a local place that performed it and that's how I came across The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic. And I am so glad I did! I've gone from being able to play tennis maybe twice a week in pain to playing 4, 5 or 6 days a week. Also, before the treatment, pullups were a thing of the past in the gym. Now I'm back to being able to do pullups with little to no pain. The whole staff is super nice and Olga, who did my therapy, is awesome! I think I owe all of my progress on the court and in the gym to her. I still have achy days and will probably end up getting my shoulder "fixed" in the future but for now, I am very happy with how things turned out!
Grateful for the Care
I want to give a big thank-you to Dr. Matt and his amazing staff! From the moment I walked in, everyone was friendly, professional, and genuinely caring. Dr. Matt took the time to listen, explain everything, and make sure I felt comfortable throughout the process. The entire staff creates such a welcoming atmosphere, and you can tell they truly care about their patients. I’m very grateful for the excellent care and would highly recommend Dr. Matt and his team to anyone looking for a great chiropractor! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve been coming here for over 15 years, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. The level of knowledge, experience, and genuine care is second to none. You can tell immediately that you’re in the hands of someone who truly knows their craft and cares about their patients. After all these years, the quality of care has remained consistently exceptional. A true gem and someone I’m incredibly grateful to have trusted with my chiropractic care for so long. Highly recommend!
I have a rare and challenging medical condition and Dr Matt and his staff have been very patient and thoughtful with me. I am thankful to have such a good office to come to for such excellent care.
Wanted to share my experience and continued support from the entire staff at
The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic.
My Knee was giving me terrible fits and I could barely walk, even with a Crutch.
On or around May 17, I watched a Facebook Reel from Dr Matt on the Shockwave Therapy and
thought why not. I proceeded to send a message thru the Reel and received an instant response and scheduled an appointment for a special they had for first treatment with X-Rays.
When I went, I was greeted by a wonderful staff who made me feel very comfortable.
I was given a tour of the facility and they answered any and all my questions so we proceeded.
After my initial visit of X-Rays, Shockwave, and Adjustments, I went for a second Visit 2 days later and Viewed the X-Rays, they came up with a treatment plan that was affordable as I Self-Pay with No Insurance.
I am happy to say that as of June, 28 I can walk without pain and no more popping Advil just to make it through the day.
I now am doing a Monthly adjustment program to keep up Maintenance.
I Highly Recommend the Great Staff at The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic and am very grateful for the support and encouragement they provide.
I experienced severe shoulder and neck pain from a previous fall. The pain came on strong and without any signs. I was in such pain it was extremely hard to drive. I called The Maulden Clinic of Chiropractic and the outstanding staff had an appointment for me in 30 minutes. Dr. Matt straightened out my neck. I went home, rested and now the pain is much less. I look forward to waking up and getting back to work.
Everyone here is so friendly and thorough. I went in for back pain I’ve dealt with my whole life. They did X-rays to find the root of the problem. They figured out my problem and helped me out right then while also setting up follow up treatment. If you have pain definitely go here! I will be returning and recommending anyone who will listen.
I’ve been coming to Dr. Matt for years now. He is the only person I trust. Not only is he a fantastic chiropractor, but a good man as well. He is a rare find. The office staff is amazing.
First time here and it was the best experience great staff couldn’t be happier so happy I decided to go to this office everyone is very professional I watched how they treated everyone that came in and left they know them by name and you can tell they really care about people here thank you very much
Truly a blessing. His commitment to our health and over all comfort is unmatched.<br>I came seeking relief from pain 20+ years ago and he provided it. Recently, found myself crippled with pain and he again is providing the relief. Simply a wonderful man.<br><br>He’ll bring you back!!<br><br>If you seek relief and believe, he is truly the best around.<br><br>And his team is too!<br><br>Thank you.
Just wanted to drop a quick review after my monthly "tune up" with Dr. Zack and the Tina's. It is always a great experience. Years ago, i would only go see my Chiropractor when I tweaked something. It usually took several appointments to get back to normal. Now, I have a monthly cadence with Empower which helps me all along the way. Then, if I do something to irritate my neck or back, it is not as heavy of a lift to get things back in shape. I love the team! Special shout-out to Christina from this past visit!
I had a great experience at The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic today. Matt Eiken did an outstanding job with my adjustment. I came in pretty tight and sore, and the staff took the time to work on my back and get me loosened up before the adjustment, which made a huge difference.<br>They also did spinal decompression therapy, which helped improve the spacing in my vertebrae and provided noticeable relief. The entire process was professional, thorough, and focused on helping me feel better.<br>I left feeling significantly looser, more mobile, and with much less discomfort than when I arrived. Matt and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my well-being.<br>I highly recommend Matt Eiken and The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic to anyone looking for quality chiropractic care.
Hands down the best staff you will find. I had a severe pinched nerve with pain and loss of strength. Surgery was what my Doctor prescribed. I took a chance with these guys and after a few weeks the pain was gone. Strength is coming back and I haven’t had to go back. Amazing job they did. The most professional group I have ever dealt with<br>10 STARS.
Absolutely amazed at the results from the sound wave therapy. I just resigned myself to being in pain. Nothing worked, shots (plural), physical therapy, exercise, nothing worked and I doubted this would but thank God I was so very wrong. It has changed everything.i finally got relief from my sciatic nerve pain. Incredible. I’m forever grateful. Thank you guys so much.
Friendly staff and some of the best chiropractic adjustments I’ve had in over 30 years of care. One of the best little extras is the shockwave treatment from Olga; she does a fantastic job finding all the right spots to target healing and relief. Highly recommend this office!
I had a very good initial appointment. They don't push over priced treatments on you. They listen to your needs and work with you on a plan. I was very satisfied with them.
The ladies here are so wonderful and helpful. I have been coming for plantar fasciitis and have had improvement. I would recommend an evaluation here if you have tried everything and nothing has helped.
5 stars!<br>Never been to a chiropractor before, just always think I'm going to get better or I can deal with pain. I had finally had enough with my neck pain and called Dr. Matt! Man, am I glad I did. Super encouraging and energetic guy that definitely loves his job of helping people. What an amazing experience! Thank you guys<br>Austin Lynch
I have always been skeptical of chiropractors but Dr. Matt and his whole staff are absolutely wonderful. They walk you through the whole process so you know exactly what they are doing. It's a great clinic to go to and I would recommend them to anyone!!
Everyone is very helpful, friendly and polite. The staff is very welcoming and efficient. I am doing so much better with the treatment. Th pain has basically gone away and I feel like I can live normally again. I am able to go about my day pain free. Thank you all for the amazing work you do!
Mauldin was fantastic today. I found them online, got an appointment the same day. I was able to get adjusted with some relief. Everyone was super nice and helpful. Thanks so much, looking forward to more visits.
I recently visited the Mauldin clinic and had such a great experience. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the whole visit feel comfortable and easy. Dr. Matt is especially friendly and a good person. I really appreciate the care I received!
I was pleasantly surprised with my whole experience of The Mauldin Clinic of Chiropractic!!! From walking in to the beautiful building, welcoming smiles of all assistants, to sppedy recovery, everything in this place speaks of quality and customer service. Appointment was scheduled in timely manner (which is super important when you are in pain), x-ray done in house and included in your first visit with adjustment on your first visit!!!! How awesome is that! Doctor was very attentive, knowledgeable and informed me of all possibilities, treatment, options, which turned out to be exactly as he stated. What really touched my heart, is that doctor himself called in the evening of the day I was first seen and asked of my well-being. I have seen 4 chiropractic clinic prior through the years, in another states, and this was the first doctor ever to call me personally. Same care and high standards are in every aspect of this clinic. They have many technologies to speed up the process and are very advanced in this field. Every person is so kind, attentive, girls are always smiling and welcoming. It truly feels like family place. You will not be disappointed, I'm sure of it!!!
Excellent staff. Dr. Aiken has helped improved my lower back pain tremendously. Staff always reminds you when your next appointment is so you can confirm or reschedule. Dr. Aiken is very friendly and makes you feel at home
I was in much agony with a bulging disc. The office got me in the same day. I was adjusted with care and left with much relief and knowledge of my condition. The staff is personable.
I exercised with bad form during a recent workout and required professional consultation. It was effortless to make my appointment. Dr. Matt helped me improve my form and understand my spine using my Xrays. Most importantly, I found relief from the pain, for which I'm beyond grateful! The office is very clean and welcoming, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. You'll enjoy coming here!
Every time I come in, everyone is so sweet and loves on my baby! Postpartum back pain is no joke and Dr Matt has been so helpful in addressing it. He’s even identified issues I didn’t know I had, and I was shocked at how much more movement I had after just my first adjustment. I continue to feel better after each appointment!
I can’t say enough great things about this chiropractor and the entire team! Everyone in the clinic is incredibly friendly and welcoming, they truly make you feel like family from the moment you walk in.<br>I also tried shockwave therapy on my knees, and the results have been amazing. It has helped tremendously! My knees feel so much better, and I’m finally able to get through my workouts without any pain. I’m so grateful for the care and support I’ve received here. Highly recommend!
What a team! Dr. Matt and his team are incredible. I just started my treatment, but I have to admit that I’m excited to be in a clinic with top-quality professionals.
As a professor of anatomy for 36 years now, I have a reasonably sound understanding of the body. Dr. Matt absolutely knows the connections between skeletal misalignment, nerve compression, and pain. He is the best Chiropractor I have found - thorough, knowledgeable, and concerned for his patients. The office setting is pleasant and calming, and with a wonderful and welcoming staff. Highly recommended.
I have had almost 30 years of chiropractic care in the Atlanta metro area and I've never experienced the level of care I did with Dr. Matt at the Mauldin Clinic. His unique techniques finally provided me with continued relief and his staff is amazing! Thank you so much and I will make it a priority be back to see Dr. Matt next time I am in Greenville!
I have had a bad experience in the past with chiropractic care… so I was a bit apprehensive. And I’ve suffered for over a decade with back pain. I am beyond thrilled to be able to get up at a bed and feel incredible the way I do today..this place is amazing I literally just happened to be in the area and just couldn’t take the back pain anymore and they scheduled me right away. so thankful I found you!
I have had migraines almost DAILY for as long as I can remember. Over the past (only!) 6 months under Dr. Matt’s care, my migraines have already decreased to approximately once a month! Absolutely life changing for me. He and his ENTIRE staff are so welcoming, professional, and personable.
Absolute best experience I’ve ever had at any chiropractor if you’re experiencing any neck or back problems this is the chiropractor you want to go to I’ve been dealing with back pain and neck pain since July in just one visit he was able to make that pain go from a five down to a zero. I’m definitely making this my go to chiropractor and I’m going to go twice a week for a long time. Thank you so much guys.
Excellent experience from start to finish. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and calming. The staff was extremely helpful and genuinely kind, making the whole visit easy and comfortable. The results from Dr. Eiken were outstanding, I felt real relief and improvement right away. Highly recommend!
Dr Eiken is precise, methodical, and he and his staff are efficient and professional. As someone who’s been to multiple chiropractors with limited success, Dr Eiken found the root of my issues and fixed it on the very first visit. I highly recommend. Bravo…
I’ve had chronic back pain for years following an injury, the last three months have been completely unbearable resulting in missed time with my family and needing to take off work. I just finished my third round of shock wave therapy combined with an adjustment and am literally pain free for the first time in years! I would recommend this treatment to anyone!
All the staff are kind, professional, and polite. It’s always a joy coming in for treatment. They treat you like family here. Highly recommend this clinic. Dr Mathew is great and walks you through everything!
The staff at this clinic were great! I had Shockwave therapy done on my knee by Olga and it helped me immensely. I no longer have shooting pain and discomfort in my knees after activity etc. I would 100% recommend this clinic to anyone looking for a chiropractor. Thank you Mauldin Clinic!
Everyone here is always so caring and supportive of me and my needs. Dr Matt is really working hard to make me feel better. I would recommend him to anyone.
I was able to get a same day appointment, which was very important to me. My pain level was a 8 and when I left it was about a 3. Doctor Mat and staff were all very professional and extremely friendly. I will be seeing them on a regular basis.
Dr. Matt and his team are amazing! From the moment you first walk in for your very first appointment to the time you leave, everyone is so friendly and welcoming. Dr. Matt listens to your needs, takes photos and will work on the weekend to develop a plan that is catered to each individual’s needs. I have had severe neck and shoulder pain for years. Regular adjustments and sports massages never quite did the trick. With their state-of-the-art technology, I have gotten to feel MUCH better in just a few weeks of therapy. I’m no longer in constant pain. It’s a miracle! Not only do they focus on the spine, they have non-invasive technology that can treat joint pain, injured tendons & ligaments, without surgery or medication. If you are a long-time sufferer of any type of pain-give him a try. You won’t regret it!
I have been going to Dr Eiken for awhile now. He is amazing! He not only relieves back and neck pain. He has helped with my vertigo, sinuses, headaches, hip and knee issues. And the staff is so friendly and thorough. I highly recommend the Mauldin Clinic!
Kathleen is the most amazing host and her personality and courtesy towards us patience is flawless. Thank you all at the mauldin clinic for drafting another caring and dedicated associate to yalls clinic. Dr. Matt is my right hand man and his work was so superb that I had to come back and use him for the second time , and will a 3rd. The receptionist is so loveable and respectful and I don't know what we will do without this super team. GO TEAM MAULDIN CLINIC ❤️
