What Happens at the First Visit?
As in any medical visit, first we gather information with a history. We discuss your child’s development and discuss how each and every problem unfolded through the years. We want to know how the child and his/her family got to their current states. We inquire into the whole range of frequently co-occurring conditions, such as ADHD, organization difficulties, autistic spectrum disorders, tics, anxiety, learning disabilities and more. Next, we screen developmental and/or academic skills. During the formal neurological examination, we ask the child to go through a series of simple maneuvers, such as coordination, strength, sensory, reflex, and walking tests. In essence, these procedures allow us to take a "tour" around the patient’s brain, checking out the function of different brain parts. As part of the information-gathering process, we review any previous evaluations that have been done.
Next, we talk with the parent(s) and/or child. We go over each diagnosis, explaining the etiology of each issue. We discuss further testing, if any. We use these diagnoses to plan remedies for the problem(s). During followup visits, we work together to carry out and adjust our treatments.
Most importantly, reassure your child that there are no needles during the office visit. Nothing hurts! In fact, most children actually enjoy the examination, which is usually done in a relaxed (often playful) style.