How Are Chiropractors Trained?
By Paul Rothbart
For those experiencing neck, back, or other joint pain, there are several treatment options. One of them is chiropractic. Perhaps you've never gone to a chiropractor but have friends and family who have. It is a positive experience for them. The pain is relieved, the body more flexible. You are considering it, but may have reservations. How does it work? Are chiropractors doctors? Many potential patients want to know what kind of training a licensed chiropractor receives. A chiropractor is a well trained medical professional. Here is the general path taken to obtain a license to practice chiropractic.
Undergraduate Degree
Future chiropractors start out by pursuing an undergraduate degree with a focus in the sciences. There are a number of majors that qualify but three in particular are well suited to moving on to chiropractic study.
Human Biology - A bachelor's of science in biology is a common focus for entering the medical field and is well suited for chiropractors. Anatomy, cell biology, organic chemistry ,and physics are some of the courses required for this degree. They provide a solid background in understanding the body and its functions.
Kinesiology - This is a study of the movement and mechanics of the body and is also an excellent background for those planning to study chiropractic. Courses include nutrition, sports physiology, and biomechanics.
Exercise Science - Some who are pursuing a career in chiropractic will choose exercise science for their undergrad degree. With courses in nutrition, strength training, exercise, and anatomy, this area of concentration also provides a solid background for a chiropractic degree.
Doctor of Chiropractic
After obtaining a four-year undergraduate degree, the student will move on to a four-year program to earn the doctor of chiropractic (DC). To practice in any of the 50 states, the school attended must be accredited by the Council of Chiropractic Education. It is here that the techniques of chiropractic are learned and practiced. There are four levels of National Boards testing that must be passed to earn the DC.
Internship and Licensing
A chiropractor spends one year of internship at a college clinic. This is where the chiropractor hones the skills used in private practice and gains valuable hands-on experience. Additional training in a specialized area of chiropractic may be pursued by those who desire it. Licensing is done by the state in which the individual wishes to practice.
Chiropractic is a viable option for easing pain and improving mobility in the back, neck, and other joints. It has worked very well for many patients. Although they are not medical doctors, chiropractors are highly trained professionals who can provide excellent treatment. Unlike MDs, who often prescribe medication to mask the pain, DCs focus on resolving the root cause of the pain without medication.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in North Las Vegas, Nev.