Career Data
MedicineChiropractor |
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| Career data updated last on 12/13/2009 | |
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Chiropractors, also known as doctors of chiropractic or chiropractic physicians, diagnose and treat patients whose health problems are associated with the body’s muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine. Chiropractors believe that interference with these systems impairs the body’s normal functions and lowers its resistance to disease. The chiropractic approach to healthcare is holistic, stressing the patient’s overall health and wellness. Chiropractors provide natural, drugless, nonsurgical health treatments and rely on the body’s inherent recuperative abilities. When appropriate, chiropractors consult with and refer patients to other health practitioners. |
| Salary | $44,140 -$65,330-$102,400 |
| Significant Points | Employment is expected to increase faster than average as a result of research and changing attitudes about alternative healthcare practices. |
| Specializations |
Some chiropractors specialize in:
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| Work Environment | Their average workweek is about 40 hours, although longer hours are not uncommon. Solo practitioners set their own hours, but may work evenings or weekends to accommodate patients. Some may join other health care professionals to form a group practice often times in affliation with a private clinic or hospital. |
| High School Prep | General college preparation is recommended: three courses in math including algebra I, algebra II and geometry, or a higher level math course for which algebra II is a prerequisite; three science courses including biology and chemistry, physics with one lab course; four English units and two social studies units, including one in U.S. History; and two years of a second language. Courses or experience in psychology and first aid and health are helpful. |
| Academic Requirements |
In 2003, 16 chiropractic programs and 2 chiropractic institutions in the United States were accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education. Applicants are required to have at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate study leading toward a bachelor’s degree, including courses in English, the social sciences or humanities, organic and inorganic chemistry, biology, physics, and psychology. Many applicants have a bachelor’s degree, which may eventually become the minimum entry requirement. Several chiropractic colleges offer prechiropractic study, as well as a bachelor’s degree program. Recognition of prechiropractic education offered by chiropractic colleges varies among the State boards. Colorado does not require a BA prior to licensure. For licensure, Colorado State Board of Chiropractic Examiners requires passing the four-part test administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Colorado will also accept Parts I & II of the test and scores from a state practical test or Part IV from the Board test. Current CPR certification is requied to maintain an active license. |