Start a Career as a Chiropractor

Chiropractor Career Video

Introduction

Choosing a healthcare career is a significant decision, and chiropractic care is appealing for non-invasive, hands-on treatment methods. Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, focusing on spinal health and overall wellness. This article will explore the steps to becoming a chiropractor, examine the pros and cons of the profession, and provide tools to help you determine if it aligns with your career goals and aspirations.

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What Does a Chiropractor Do?

Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, focusing on improving health through non-invasive, manual techniques. Their primary method involves spinal adjustments and manipulations, addressing misalignments that can affect the nervous system and overall bodily function. Chiropractors play a vital role in promoting holistic wellness and helping patients achieve a better quality of life without relying on medication or surgery.

Key Responsibilities of a Chiropractor

Performing Comprehensive Assessments
Chiropractors begin by assessing patients through detailed physical exams, reviewing medical histories, and using diagnostic tools such as X-rays, MRIs, or posture analysis. This process helps them identify the root cause of pain, discomfort, or limited mobility and create a personalized treatment plan.
Spinal and Joint Adjustments
Chiropractors adjust the spine and other joints using hands-on techniques to restore alignment, reduce nerve interference, and alleviate pain. These adjustments can improve the range of motion, enhance nerve function, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Providing Lifestyle and Preventive Guidance
Chiropractors often go beyond adjustments to help patients maintain long-term health. They recommend exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, suggest ergonomic changes to reduce strain, and advise on diet, posture, and stress management to prevent future issues.
Educating Patients on Wellness
Patient education is a critical part of chiropractic care. Chiropractors teach patients how to care for their spine, manage chronic conditions, and incorporate habits that support overall wellness. This empowers patients to participate actively in their recovery and health maintenance.
Collaborating with Other Healthcare Professionals
Chiropractors often work alongside physical therapists, massage therapists, primary care doctors, and specialists to provide comprehensive care. This collaboration ensuresthat patients receive well-rounded treatment plans tailored to their unique needs.
Using Advanced Therapies and Techniques
Many chiropractors incorporate additional therapies such as ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, cold laser therapy, and stretching techniques to complement spinal adjustments. These methods enhance treatment outcomes and help address a broader range of conditions.

Common Conditions Treated by Chiropractors

Chiropractors treat a variety of conditions, including:

Back pain and sciatica
Neck pain and whiplash
Headaches and migraines
Sports injuries
Joint pain, such as in the shoulders, knees, or hips
Postural issues and scoliosis
Carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injuries

By focusing on natural, patient-centered care, chiropractors aim to relieve pain, improve mobility, and help patients achieve optimal health. Their holistic approach makes them a vital part of the healthcare system, especially for individuals seeking non-invasive solutions to their health concerns.

What Is the Working Environment for a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors typically work in a professional and patient-centered setting. Understanding their work environment can help you envision a day in the life of a chiropractor.

Common Work Settings

Private Practices: Most chiropractors operate in private clinics, managing appointments, billing, and patient care.
Group Practices: Some chiropractors work in collaborative environments with other healthcare professionals.
Hospitals and Clinics: Chiropractors in more extensive healthcare facilities focus on integrated care for diverse patient populations.

Work Hours and Demands

Chiropractors often work regular business hours, though some may offer evening or weekend appointments to accommodate patients’ schedules.
The job requires physical stamina, as chiropractors perform hands-on treatments daily.

How Do You Become a Chiropractor?

Becoming a chiropractor requires extensive education, training, and licensure. Below are the steps you need to follow:

1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree

Start by earning a bachelor’s degree, typically in a science-related field such as biology, kinesiology, or exercise science. Many chiropractic programs require 90 undergraduate anatomy, physiology, and chemistry credits.

2. Enroll in a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) Program

Chiropractic programs are accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). These programs typically take four years to complete and include coursework in:

Anatomy and Physiology
Diagnostic Imaging
Spinal Anatomy
Nutrition and Rehabilitation

Programs also include clinical training to prepare students for patient care. Learn more about accredited programs at CCE’s official website.

3. Obtain Licensure

To practice legally, you must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam and meet state-specific licensure requirements. For more details, visit the NBCE website.

4. Consider Specialization

Chiropractors can pursue additional certifications in areas such as sports chiropractic, pediatrics, or rehabilitation to broaden their expertise.

What Is the Salary of a Chiropractor?

Chiropractors’ salaries can vary based on location, experience, and specialization. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for chiropractors was $75,000 as of 2022. Chiropractors in top-paying states like Connecticut and Massachusetts often earn significantly more.

For updated salary information, visit the BLS Chiropractor Salary page.

What Is the Labor Market for a Chiropractor?

The demand for chiropractors is expected to grow steadily due to increased awareness of non-invasive treatments and the aging population. The BLS projects a 10% growth in employment for chiropractors from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

Learn more about job outlooks at the BLS Chiropractor Job Outlook page.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Chiropractor?

Pros

High Job Satisfaction: Chiropractors often find fulfillment in improving patients’ quality of life.
Autonomy: Many chiropractors run their practices, allowing for independence and flexibility.
Growing Demand: Increased interest in holistic and non-invasive treatments contributes to job security.
Diverse Specializations: Chiropractors can tailor their practice to specific patient needs, such as sports injuries or pediatric care.

Cons

Educational Investment: Becoming a chiropractor requires significant time and financial investment.
Physical Demands: Performing manual adjustments can be physically taxing.
Business Challenges: Chiropractors running private practices must manage administrative tasks and business operations.
Variable Income: Earnings can vary significantly, especially for new practitioners building a client base.

What Are the Careers Related to a Chiropractor?

If chiropractic care interests you, here are related professions to consider:

Physical Therapist: Help patients recover mobility and manage pain through exercise and therapeutic techniques.
Occupational Therapist: Assist individuals in developing skills for daily living and work activities.
Massage Therapist: Provide therapeutic massages to relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Athletic Trainer: Work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries and improve performance.
Acupuncturist: Use traditional Chinese medicine techniques to address various physical and emotional conditions.

Chiropractor – An Investigative Career Path

Chiropractor is a career that fits within the Holland Investigative and Social types. Holland types, also known as Holland Codes or RIASEC, organize careers based on people’s interests and personality traits. You can discover your own three-letter Holland Code by taking the Career Fit Test™.

Investigative-Social careers are ideal for individuals who enjoy understanding how the human body works and helping others improve their health. Chiropractors diagnose and treat issues related to the musculoskeletal system, particularly spine-related conditions. They use hands-on spinal manipulation and other therapeutic techniques to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and support overall wellness. This career is a great fit for those who are compassionate, scientifically minded, and enjoy one-on-one interaction with patients in a healthcare setting.

Comprehensive List of Investigative Careers

Below are many more investigative careers. Also, see our article, How to Choose Investigative Careers.

To determine which careers best fit you, take a career test such as the Career Fit Test™.

What Types of Jobs Can a Chiropractor Pursue?

Chiropractors can explore various career paths beyond traditional practice, such as:

Sports Chiropractic: Working with athletes to prevent and treat injuries.
Corporate Wellness: Providing on-site care to employees in corporate settings.
Education and Research: Teaching or conducting studies in chiropractic medicine.
Chiropractic Equipment Sales: Advising and selling medical devices and tools.

What Websites Are Best for Finding Chiropractor Jobs?

Finding a chiropractor job is easier with these specialized platforms:

Indeed: Offers a wide range of job listings in healthcare, including chiropractic roles.
HealthJobsNationwide: This company specializes in jobs for healthcare professionals.
American Chiropractic Association (ACA) Career Center: Provides resources and job listings tailored to chiropractors.
LinkedIn: Enables networking with professionals and finding job opportunities.

How Do I Know If I Should Be a Chiropractor?

Deciding whether chiropractic care is the right career for you requires a mix of self-reflection, research, and exploration. Here are some tools and strategies to help you make an informed choice:

Take a Career Aptitude Test

One of the best ways to start is by understanding how your interests, skills, and personality align with a chiropractic career. The Free Career Fit Test™ provides valuable insights through three key assessments:

Career Test
Matches your interests with various careers, including chiropractic roles, helping you see if your passions align with this field.
Career Aptitude Assessment
Highlights your top transferable skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and hand-eye coordination— critical for success as a chiropractor.
Personality Trait Quiz
Identify your working style and evaluate whether it fits chiropractic care’s patient-focused, hands-on nature.

In addition, the test provides a Holland Code, which can help you compare your preferences to the typical code for chiropractors—Social, Investigative, and Realistic. With the Premium Report and Skills Map™, you can:

Pinpoint your key strengths and skills.
Discover your best career fit, including related roles in healthcare.
Develop a personalized mission statement to guide your career journey.

Start exploring your potential today with the Free Career Fit Test™ to see if chiropractic care aligns with your unique profile.

Conduct Informational Interviews

Speaking directly with practicing chiropractors during informational interviews is one of the most effective ways to understand the profession. These conversations offer real-world insights into their daily responsibilities, challenges, and rewards.

Consider asking these questions during your interviews:

What inspired you to become a chiropractor?
What do you enjoy most about your career?
What challenges do you face in your work?
What advice would you give to someone considering this field?

Networking through platforms like LinkedIn, joining professional chiropractic organizations, or attending industry conferences can connect you with professionals willing to share their experiences and advice.

Shadow a Chiropractor

If possible, spend time observing a chiropractor in their practice. This hands-on exposure allows you to see firsthand what the work entails, from patient consultations to treatment techniques. This experience can help you decide if the career aligns with your interests and values.

By combining tools like the Career Fit Test™ with real-world exploration, you’ll be well-equipped to confidently decide to pursue a chiropractic career.

How Can I Learn More About a Career as a Chiropractor?

Explore these resources for more information:

O*NET Chiropractor Page: Detailed occupational information for chiropractors.
American Chiropractic Association (ACA): This professional association offers resources, education, and advocacy for chiropractors.
Chiropractic Economics: Industry magazine with career insights and business strategies for chiropractors.

Conclusion

Becoming a chiropractor is a significant decision that requires a passion for helping others, a dedication to understanding the human body, and a commitment to ongoing professional growth. This career offers the chance to improve patients’ health and well-being through non-invasive, holistic care, making a meaningful impact on their lives.

However, it is essential to ensure that this path aligns with your skills, interests, and values. A career test like the Career Fit Test can help you identify your top transferable, personal, and content skills and uncover your passions and strengths. By understanding how your unique skills map to a chiropractic career, you can make a more confident and informed decision about whether this field fits you.

To further solidify your decision, consider shadowing chiropractors, researching educational requirements, and reflecting on the profession’s day-to-day realities. Whether you choose chiropractic care or another path, aligning your career with your purpose and strengths is key to achieving long-term success and fulfillment.

How to Become a Chiropractor: Is It the Right Career for You?