Chiropractors treat musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.
Chiropractors are health professionals who specialize in treating injuries and disorders associated with the musculoskeletal system, especially those related to the spine and back. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of jobs for chiropractors to increase by 20 percent from 2008 to 2018. The median pay of chiropractors was $67,650, as of May 2009. Chiropractors must obtain extensive education and licensing to legally work and provide treatment services.
Undergraduate Education
A potential chiropractor must obtain a college education in order to be eligible for chiropractic school and receive the training that she needs to legally provide treatment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this does not necessarily require that aspiring chiropractors finish a bachelor's degree. A minimum of 90 credit hours, or approximately three years of full-time study, is needed to enter chiropractor school. As a minimum, students should pursue coursework in chemistry and organic chemistry, biology, English, psychology and communications.
Chiropractic Studies
To become a chiropractor, students must complete a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) studies degree which requires the completion of a minimum of 4,200 hours of training that combines laboratory work with classroom instruction and clinical practice. Similar to medical school, chiropractors spend the first two years of study completing advanced science coursework along with foundational studies for their doctorate. During the remaining two years of study, they complete hands-on training that allows them to learn spine manipulation and other techniques used in the field. They also take advanced coursework in areas like nutrition, neurology, physiotherapy, geriatrics and orthopedics, among others.
Licensing
Licensing is required for chiropractors in all 50 states, as well as in the District of Columbia. The requirements can vary somewhat by state, but in general, two years of undergraduate education and the completion of the D.C. degree are required. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that some states have begun to require a bachelor's degree in addition to the D.C. degree, making it necessary for aspiring chiropractors to complete a minimum of eight years of undergraduate and graduate study combined. Licensing generally requires that chiropractors pass a state licensing examination that meets the standards of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Some states have reciprocal licensing agreements, making it possible to move from one state to the next without having to obtain a new license.
Other Qualifications
Chiropractors need to have a variety of people and business skills to be successful. They need to have excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to engage in active listening by asking patients the right questions and getting answers that they need to provide the right treatments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes the need for observation skills to assess physical abnormalities. They also need manual dexterity or the ability to use coordinated hand movements to manipulate the spine and body as needed. Many chiropractors establish their own businesses and need the necessary business skills to set these up and run them effectively. Skills in marketing, accounting and sales can all be helpful.
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