First visit
No surprises. Here is exactly what your first visit looks like.
Your first appointment
The initial visit typically runs 45–60 minutes. Plan accordingly — and plan to feel better walking out.
Arrive 10 minutes early to complete a health history form. You can also call ahead and we will email it to you so you can fill it in at home — no clipboard scrambling in the waiting room. Be specific about when symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and any prior injuries or treatments.
Dr. Graue sits down with you — not a medical assistant, not a tech — to understand your chief complaint, your history, and your goals. This conversation shapes everything that follows. It is also your chance to ask every question you came in with.
Orthopedic and neurological testing, range-of-motion assessment, postural analysis, and spinal palpation. If you have brought imaging (X-rays, MRI reports), Dr. Graue reviews them here. If imaging is needed and has not been done, she will refer you for the right study before proceeding.
Dr. Graue explains what she found and recommends a care plan: specific therapies, estimated visit frequency, and expected timeline. Nothing is a surprise. You understand exactly what is being done and why. If something in the plan does not work for your schedule or budget, say so — she will adjust.
In most cases, Dr. Graue begins treatment on the first visit. You do not wait a week to start. By the end of your appointment, you will have had your first adjustment — and in many cases, your first session of whatever adjunct therapy (acupuncture, EMS, decompression) is part of your plan.
Come prepared
Gathering these items before your appointment keeps the intake moving and gives Dr. Graue the information she needs to assess you accurately.
Both front and back. We will verify coverage before treatment so you know your out-of-pocket cost upfront.
X-rays, MRI reports, CT scans — digital files or physical films. If you have a CD from another clinic, bring it.
Current prescriptions and over-the-counter supplements. Some interact with manual therapy or affect treatment decisions.
Driver's license or state ID. Required for new patient records.
When they started, what triggers them, what makes them better or worse. Write it down — you will remember more and the consultation will be more focused.
Loose-fitting clothing that allows access to your back, neck, and shoulders. Avoid heavy belts or tight jeans if possible.
Coverage
We are in-network with most major South Dakota insurance plans. Coverage varies by plan — we recommend calling us before your visit so we can verify your chiropractic benefits and give you a realistic estimate of what you will owe.
If you are uninsured or your plan does not cover chiropractic, ask about our self-pay rates. We keep them fair and transparent.
Not seeing your plan? Call us at (605) 371-8646 — we may still be able to work with it or provide a superbill for out-of-network reimbursement.
Common questions
No. Chiropractic doctors in South Dakota are primary-contact providers — you can schedule directly without a physician's referral. Some insurance plans require a referral for coverage; we can clarify your plan's requirements when you call to schedule.
In most cases, yes. After the consultation and examination, Dr. Graue proceeds to treatment the same day. Occasionally if imaging is needed first, she may defer the adjustment — but she will explain clearly why and when to expect it.
Yes — chiropractic is one of the safest forms of care for musculoskeletal conditions. Serious adverse events are extremely rare and are screened for during the intake examination. Dr. Graue uses a variety of techniques including low-force options for patients who are nervous about manipulation.
It depends on your condition, how long you have had it, and how your body responds. Acute conditions often resolve significantly within 4–8 visits. Chronic conditions typically require a longer initial phase. Dr. Graue gives you a realistic timeline at your first visit and re-evaluates regularly — you are never kept on a plan longer than you need to be.
Yes. Dr. Graue sees patients of all ages, including infants. Pediatric techniques are very gentle — no cracking or high-velocity manipulation for young children. Parents are always present during treatment for minors.
Yes. New Horizon Chiropractic accepts auto accident (PIP) billing. Whiplash, neck pain, and low-back injuries from motor vehicle accidents are among the most common conditions we treat. Bring your accident information and your auto insurance card — we handle the billing details.
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid heavy belts or very tight pants if you can. Gowns are available if needed.
We ask for 24 hours notice for cancellations so we can offer your slot to another patient. If something comes up last minute, just call us — we are understanding about genuine emergencies.
You are ready
Same-day appointments are often available. Call (605) 371-8646 or fill out the online request form — we will confirm within one business day.