Your first chiropractic visit can feel intimidating when you don’t know what to expect. At The Spine and Wellness Center in Coral Springs, we’ve welcomed patients from across Coral Springs and Parkland since 2005, and our goal on day one is simple: understand your problem, rule out anything serious, and build a plan that fits your body and your goals. Here’s a clear walkthrough so you can arrive relaxed and informed.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jared Cohen, DC · Updated June 2026

Step 1: Paperwork and your health history

Your visit begins with intake forms covering your medical history, current symptoms, medications, past injuries, and what you hope to achieve. If you’d rather not fill these out in the waiting room, you can schedule an appointment ahead of time and complete them in advance. Bring your photo ID and insurance card so our team can verify your benefits, since we accept most major insurance plans.

Dr. Jared Cohen, DC, will then sit down with you for a conversation. This consultation matters as much as any test, because the story of how your pain started, what makes it worse, and how it affects your daily life guides everything that follows.

Step 2: The chiropractic examination

Next comes a hands-on exam. Dr. Cohen evaluates your posture, spinal alignment, range of motion, muscle tone, and reflexes, and he palpates the spine to find restricted or tender areas. He may also perform orthopedic and neurological tests to pinpoint whether nerves, joints, discs, or muscles are involved.

We often use objective technology to make the invisible visible. A MyoVision scan can measure muscle activity and tension along the spine, while a GaitScan analysis assesses how your feet and posture affect the rest of your body. These tools help us track your progress over time rather than relying on guesswork.

What we look for during the exam

• Areas of restricted joint motion or misalignment
• Muscle imbalances and trigger points
• Nerve irritation or referred pain patterns
• Posture and gait issues that contribute to your symptoms
• Red flags that may require imaging or referral

Step 3: Your diagnosis and personalized plan

Once Dr. Cohen has gathered your history and exam findings, he’ll explain what’s going on in plain language and recommend a care plan. That plan may include chiropractic care such as gentle spinal adjustments, soft-tissue work, therapeutic exercise, and supportive therapies. He’ll discuss how many visits you may need, what each visit involves, and realistic expectations for relief and recovery. You’re always free to ask questions before agreeing to anything.

Many patients ask whether they’ll be adjusted on the first day. Often the answer is yes, especially if findings are clear and you’re comfortable proceeding. Other times we start conservatively and build from there. The pace is always your choice.

Is the first adjustment painful?

A chiropractic adjustment is usually not painful. You may hear a popping sound, which is simply gas releasing from the joint, and most patients describe a sense of relief or lightness afterward. Some people feel mild soreness for a day or two, similar to after a workout, as the body adapts. Dr. Cohen tailors the technique and force to your comfort level, and we offer gentler, low-force options for those who prefer them.

Serving Coral Springs, Parkland and nearby communities

We care for patients across Coral Springs, Parkland, Coconut Creek, Margate and Tamarac, and we know how busy life in South Florida can be. That’s why we offer same-day appointments and a streamlined first visit that typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. You can learn more about our team on our Meet Our Doctors page before you arrive.

How to prepare for your first chiropractic visit

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing you can move in
• Bring your ID, insurance card, and any relevant imaging or records
• Make a list of your symptoms and questions
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early if completing forms in office
• Avoid heavy meals right before your appointment