First visit guide

What to expect on your first appointment.

No mystery. No vague timelines. Here is exactly what happens on day one, in order. Most first visits run about 45 minutes start to finish — and you will leave with a real plan, not a stack of brochures.

  1. 1

    Paperwork & benefits (15 minutes)

    Arrive a few minutes early to complete your new-patient forms, or call ahead to have them emailed. Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. If you have recent imaging (X-ray or MRI), bring it along — it saves a step in the exam.

  2. 2

    Conversation (20 minutes)

    Dr. Capps listens first. What hurts, when it started, how long it has been there, what you have already tried, and — importantly — what you actually need to be able to do. Not just pain-free, but able to sit through your workday, finish your round of golf, or carry your groceries without wincing.

  3. 3

    Exam & imaging (if needed)

    Orthopedic, neurologic, and range-of-motion tests. If imaging is warranted, Dr. Capps will say so and help you arrange it. If it is not needed, he will tell you that too — we do not X-ray every patient as a matter of course.

  4. 4

    Honest plan

    You will leave with a clear care plan, a written estimate, and a realistic answer to "how long until I feel better." No high-pressure prepaid packages. No fourteen-visit commitments before you have seen results.

  5. 5

    Treatment, if you are ready

    Most new patients receive their first adjustment the same day. If today is not the right day — you are in too much acute pain, you want to think about the plan, you need more information — that is perfectly fine. We will reschedule at no charge.

Request an appointment
Capps Chiropractic Clinic — 5220 Williamson Rd NW, Roanoke VA
Insurance & payment

Straight answers before you ever swipe a card.

We verify your benefits before your first appointment so the front-desk conversation is short and there are no surprises on visit two.

If you are paying out of pocket

We offer a flat new-patient exam fee and a flat per-visit adjustment fee. We do not require prepaid care plans. If a tool is not going to help you, we will not bill you for it.

CareCredit & payment plans

CareCredit is accepted for larger treatment plans. Internal payment arrangements are available for established patients who need them — just ask at the front desk.

Plans we accept

  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Virginia
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Healthcare
  • Humana
  • Medicare
  • Tricare
  • Workers' compensation (case-by-case)

Plan list current to 2026. We will verify your specific benefits before your first appointment. Call us with questions.

Common questions

What new patients usually ask first.

If your question is not here, just call — we would rather answer it now than have you guess.

How long until I feel better?

Most new patients notice a meaningful change inside two to four visits. Chronic, long-standing issues take longer. Dr. Capps will give you an honest read after the first exam — not a generic 24-visit plan.

What is the difference between an adjustment and a massage?

A massage works on muscle and soft tissue. An adjustment is a precise, controlled movement applied to a specific joint to restore motion and reduce nerve irritation. Both have a place; the approach depends on what is causing your pain.

How many visits will I need?

It depends on what is wrong and how long it has been wrong. Dr. Capps does not sell prepaid packages. After your exam he will recommend a care plan with a clear end-point, and will revisit it with you as you progress.

Do I need a referral?

No. Chiropractors are primary-contact providers in Virginia. You can call us directly — no referral required from a primary care physician.

What if I have been to a chiropractor before and did not like it?

Tell us on the phone. There are many techniques — if a high-velocity adjustment is not right for you, there are gentler instrument-assisted and drop-table options that work just as well for many conditions.

Will the adjustment hurt?

Most patients find the audible pop more startling than the sensation. The adjustment itself is quick and usually relieving. Dr. Capps explains every movement before it happens — no surprises.

Can I exercise while I am being treated?

Usually yes — and often Dr. Capps will give you specific exercises as part of your plan. He will advise you on what to scale back and what to continue based on your specific situation.

Ready when you are.

Request a new-patient appointment and we will call you back the same business day to confirm a time.

Request appointment Call (540) 362-3700