your first visit
Upon entering our office, our receptionist will welcome you as a member of our family. We will request that you complete our patient forms located in the New Patient Center. This paperwork provides us with your health history and information on your condition.
patient forms
Next, you will have a consultation with our doctors to discuss your health-related problems, concerns, and potential treatment options. This initial visit is designed for our doctors to learn more about you, your condition, and your expectations to determine how chiropractic care can meet your goals.
Consultation
After your consultation, will perform a complete chiropractic examination testing your reflexes and flexibility. Other standard neurological, orthopedic, postural, and physical tests will be performed as well. However, nothing will be done in our office without your consent.
Examination
Depending on your specific condition, we may refer you for X-rays as well. X-rays help us develop the most effective treatment plan for you, and alert us of any serious spinal conditions. Most people are amazed once they see their X-rays up close. In some cases, they can even identify their misalignments and degeneration themselves.
X-Ray Studies
Once the information is collected and examinations are performed, our doctors will give you a detailed report of all findings and answer any questions including:
How can you help me?
How often do I need to come in?
What will my treatment cost?
After reviewing your health history, and goals, and examining your spine and X-rays, our doctors will discuss recommendations and notify you if your condition requires care with other providers. Our doctors will provide the best treatment and wellness program for your needs.
Report of Findings
After this initial appointment, you can choose to experience your first treatment. This may include spinal adjustments, physical therapy, and/or soft tissue massage. Treatment is interactive, so you can express concerns about the different styles of treatment anytime.
Treatment
Before leaving, the doctor will suggest a wellness program to incorporate outside of treatment. If you are in pain when you first come into our office this may include ice or heat application instructions, certain activities or positions to avoid, and at-home exercises and/or stretches. If you desire, our wellness team will work with you to create healthy habits and routines for your lifestyle. Every person is unique, therefore everyone requires a customized wellness plan. The purpose of our wellness program is for you to achieve good spinal alignment, have a healthy diet, exercise, and maintain a positive mental state.
Wellness Program
phase one | relief care
Many people go to a chiropractor because they are in pain. In this first phase of care, the main goal is to reduce your symptoms. Sometimes this will require daily visits, or two to three visits per week for a time.
Most people are under the assumption that if they don't feel any pain that there is nothing wrong with them - that they are healthy. Unfortunately, pain is a very poor indicator of health. In fact, pain and other symptoms frequently only appear after a disease or other condition has become advanced.
For example, consider a cavity in your tooth. Does it hurt when it first develops or only after it has become serious? How about heart disease? Regardless of whether you are talking about cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stress or problems with the spine, pain is usually the last thing to appear. When you begin chiropractic care, pain is also the first symptom to disappear, even though much of the underlying condition remains.
Thumbs Up to Relief
phase two | corrective care
Most chiropractors regard the elimination of symptoms as the easiest part of a persons care. If all that the chiropractor does is to reduce the pain and stop there, the chances of the condition recurring are much greater. In order to prevent a rapid recurrence of symptoms, it is necessary to continue receiving care even though your symptoms are gone.
During the correction / restorative phase of your care, you will not have to receive adjustments as often as you did during the first phase of care and, depending on your particular circumstances, you may begin doing exercises and stretches either at the center or at home to help accelerate your healing.
Do not be discouraged if you have mild flare-ups in your symptoms on occasion. This is normal. Flare-ups are bound to occur during this phase because your body has not fully healed. Depending on the severity of your injury or condition and how long you have been suffering from it, this phase of your care may last anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.
Teaming Up for Optimal Health
phase three | wellness care
Once your body has fully healed, routine chiropractic care can help ensure your physical problems do not return and keep your body in optimal condition. Just like continuing an exercise program and eating well in order to sustain the benefits of exercise and proper diet, it is necessary to continue chiropractic care to ensure the health of your musculoskeletal system.
When you make routine chiropractic care a part of your lifestyle, you avoid many of the aches and pains that so many people suffer through, your joints will last longer, and you will be able to engage in more of the activities you love.
Maintenance is Key to Healthy Living
our wellness partners
True wellness involves balance in many areas of an individuals health. This chiropractic practice focuses mainly on the nervous system, however there are many other systems such as the digestive, cardiovascular, immune, and nueromusculskeletal systems. Dr. Tori Ritchie has put together an all-star team of our favorite wellness providers. We've worked hand-in-hand with some team members while others come highly recommended. Feel free to scout out the best players you can find, interview them and make sure that they can provide you what you need to help you create and support your wellness lifestyle.
view partners
Acupuncture is a method of encouraging the body to promote natural healing and improve function. This is done by inserting sterilized, stainless-steel needles (that are as fine as a human hair) into specific points located near or on the surface of the skin which have the ability to alter various biochemical and physiological conditions in order to treat a wide variety of illnesses.
Acupuncturist, Dr. Michael Chen
Acupuncturist,
Dr. Michael Chen
We all know what a dentist does. The dental profession has done an exceptional job teaching people about wellness. Although some people do not go to the dentist until they are in pain, few people argue that it is a good idea to see your dentist for preventative care and optimal hygiene. How you take care of your teeth is often a great analogy for how you should think about taking care of your spine.
Dentist, Dr. Carol Summers
Homeopathy is practiced by a wide variety of health-care practitioners, including medical doctors, osteopaths, naturopathic physicians, nurse practitioners, physician's assistants, dentists, veterinarians, chiropractors, acupuncturists, nurse midwives, and podiatrists, as well as by professional homeopaths,who practice only homeopathy and are unlicensed in any other discipline. You will find a variety of homeopathic remedies at most health food stores, and these can often be an effective way of relieving symptoms without the use of pharmaceuticals.
Homeopath, Ivy Wong
Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of therapy and is a system of stroking, pressing and kneading different areas of the body to relieve pain, relax, stimulate, and tone the body. Massage works on the soft tissues (the muscles, tendons, and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Massage also stimulates blood circulation and assists the lymphatic system (which runs parallel to the circulatory system), improving the elimination of waste throughout the body. Although a single massage will be enjoyable, the effects of massage are cumulative and a course of massage treatments will bring the most benefits. Massage can help reduce fatigue, leaving the person with a feeling of replenished energy. At its best, massage has the potential to restore the individual physically, mentally and spiritually. Rates can range from $50 to $125 per hour depending on who and where you are receiving your massage. You can expect to pay more for someone who is willing to travel to your home of for a spa massage.
Massage Therapist, Misha Swaroski
It is best to have a good understanding of what to expect from your medical doctor. Generally speaking, most medical doctors are trained to diagnose and treat disease with the use of pharmaceuticals and/or surgical procedures. It is best to try to develop a relationship with your primary medical doctor so that the doctor can best understand your values and concerns. Studies have shown that a high percentage of people go to their doctor wanting a specific medication that they may have seen advertised. It is no secret that doctors do not have a lot time to spend and often aren't sure whether you are the type of person who is not interested in lifestyle recommendations and just wants a prescription. Or you may be the type of person who would prefer a more conservative approach and prefers not to take medication unless it is absolutely necessary. Do your best to find a medical doctor who is willing to provide you the care you most prefer.
Medical Doctor, Dr. Aaron Miller
A licensed naturopathic physician (ND) attends a four-year graduate level naturopathic medical school and is educated in all of the same basic sciences as a medical doctor, but who also studies holistic and nontoxic approaches to therapy with a strong emphasis on disease prevention and optimizing wellness. In addition to a standard medical curriculum, the naturopath is required to complete four years of training in clinical nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathic medicine, botanical medicine, psychology and counseling (to encourage people to make lifestyle changes in support of their personal health). A naturopathic physician takes rigorous professional board exams so that he or she may be licensed by a state or jurisdiction as a primary care general practice physician.
Naturopath, Jules Martin
So many different health concerns can be related to the foods we eat, that having a nutritionist or dietician can be a great resource. Nutritionists are professionals who can fully assess your condition including lab testing for allergies and other health concerns. A nutritionist can assist in specific recommendations on nutritional supplements and healthy food choices to help you return to optimal health. Do you know which supplements and vitamins are good for you? A nutritionist can provide a structured nutritional program based on your individual needs.
Nutritionist & Dietician, Amy Sanders
Nutritionist & Dietician,
Amy Sanders
Our eyes are our windows to the world. It is recommended that you be aware of your vision and make sure that you can see clearly. Visiting an optometrist helps to ensure that you are seeing correctly and ensures that for those who need are using the proper strength corrective lenses.
Optometrist, Dr. Ellie Weil
A personal fitness trainer is someone who is trained in recommending exercise programs. This can often include recommending nutritional advice as well. Personal trainers have a variety of certification programs. You may look for a trainer who is a CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or a CPT (Certified Personal Trainer). The most important thing is to find a trainer with whom you feel comfortable and with whom you would like to work. Knowing what to do is often the easy part; finding someone that will inspire you to stay with the program and keep you accountable to get results is the hard part. Rates can range from $40 to $90 per hour and you can often receive discounts by purchasing packages of sessions.
Personal Fitness Trainer, Vance Strong
Personal Fitness Trainer,
Vance Strong
Podiatrists are responsible for diagnosing and treating foot, ankle, and lower leg disorders, including sports and other injuries. Podiatrists use a range of clinical, surgical, and therapeutic techniques to treat patients. They give professional advice on the prevention of foot problems and on proper care of the foot. Podiatrists work in private practices, hospitals, and clinics.
Podiatrist, Dr. David Miles
Pilates has become one of the fastest growing forms of strengthening your core muscles. There are new Pilates studios in cities nationwide. Developed in the 1920s by the legendary physical trainer and founder of The New York Pilates Studio, Joseph H. Pilates, The Pilates Method is an exercise system focused on improving flexibility and strength for the total body without building bulk. Not surprisingly, some of the first people to use the Pilates Method were dancers. The Pilates Method is not just exercise, however, it is a series of controlled movements engaging your body and mind, performed on specifically designed exercise apparatus and supervised by extensively trained teachers.
Pilates Instructor, Mika Levi
Yoga is an ancient system of practices originating in India. It is aimed at integrating mind, body and spirit to enhance health and well-being. There are many different forms of yoga. Hatha yoga, the most widely practiced form of yoga in the Western world, uses specific postures and breathing exercises. Yoga studios are opening up in cities everywhere. Often fitness centers will offer yoga classes as well. Find somewhere convenient to where you live or work and take advantage of their introductory programs. Almost all studios have specials for people just looking to check it out.
Yoga Instructor, Misha Weis
collapse list ^
Meet the Doctors
dr. sandra & Dr. Tori
Dr. Sandra & Dr. Tori are ready to serve you and your family here in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. They have a passion for caring for their patients and making them feel at home.
learn more
we also offer
testing, supplements, our favorite items, & programs!
testing & consulting
We have several different types of tests to choose from, along with consult options with Dr. Tori & Dr. B to help improve your overall health!
view all tests & consults
supplements
From elderberry to LMNT, parasite cleanses and more, here at Holistic Haven we are ready to deliver you the supplements that are right for you!
view all supplements
our favorite items
Wondering what products to buy to help in certain situations? We've got you covered!
view favorites
programs
Experience the convenience and comfort of making positive changes to your health from the privacy of your own home.
view all programs
"Anytime you walk in the doors, you will be treated with kindness and respect. They are amazing and the way that they always find time to care for folks whether ongoing or any emergency needs. I love these ladies and the way they care for all your needs from adjustments to treatments to massages. Best in town."
- Deborah W.
"I have been seeing Dr. Sandra for three sessions, and I couldn't be more pleased with the care I've received. From the very first visit, Dr. Sandra took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly assess my condition. Her attention to detail and personalized approach made me feel confident that I was in good hands.
- Tania F.
(cont. from Tania) Dr. Sandra is incredibly knowledgeable and always explains the treatment plan in a way that's easy to understand. Her adjustments are gentle yet effective, and I have noticed a significant improvement while running and overall well-being.
- Tania F.
(cont. from Tania) The office environment is warm and welcoming, and the staff is always friendly and accommodating. I appreciate the flexible scheduling options and the minimal wait times. Dr. Sandra truly cares about her patients' health and goes above and beyond to ensure they receive the best possible care."
- Tania F.
"Dr. Tori is best, always attentive to what is needed by you and makes you feel better when you're done."
- Kevin H.
"I was evaluated and treated by Dr. B. In only 2 visits I feel much better. Very good experience."
- Patricia K.
"Love Dr. Tori and all the staff. Welcoming smile to a great adjustment!"
- Amy T.
"I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Tori. She truly takes the time to listen and address the concerns you have! I highly recommend her if you’re serious about getting healthy."
- Wes H.
"Dr. Tori and Dr. Buffkin are both amazing! I always leave there feeling better and I love that I can easily schedule my own appointments in the app and there is always availability. Thank you!"
- Malinda N.
"This was my first visit to Holistic Haven and I was nervous, everyone was very friendly and Dr. B was awesome! She explained everything to me and gave me the relief for the pain I have been enduring. Can not wait to return!!"
- Mary D.
"Dr. Sandra and Dr. Tori always on point for my wife and I."
- Jerry C.
"Love Dr. Tori and Dr. B. They get to the root of my problems and find a solution. All the personnel are great."
- Cynthia J.
"I have never been to a chiropractor before, but I was in severe pain and desperate for relief. After one visit, my pain dramatically reduced."
- Aryn K.
"Dr. Tori & Dr. B are great!!!! They take a sincere interest in their patients. Excellent Chiropractors! 👍😎"
- Bruce W.
"So talented and so caring. Always a wonderful and healing experience. Has made a huge difference for me after a car accident - thank you!"
- Naomi F.
"Testimony will go here"
- Name
The following resources have been assembled to provide you with more chiropractic wellness care information available on the internet.
online health resources
Chiropractic Directory
Chiropractic Organizations
www.Acatoday.org
www.Chiro.org
www.Chiropractic.org
www.ChiropracticIsSafe.org
www.ChiropracticResearchReview.com
wellness for kids
Exercise and Nutrition
www.BodyForLife.com
www.CorePerformance.com
www.Ediets.com
www.FitnessPlus.com
www.FoodRevolution.org
www.IFIC.org
www.NANP.org
www.SparkPeople.com
www.WestonAPrice.org
www.WHFoods.org
www.WholeHealthMD.com
Fitness Centers
Thought and Meditation
life coach
Acupuncture
Dentist
Homeopath
Naturopath
Pilates
Yoga
