While traditionally family doctors or general practitioners were the primary choice for receiving medical care and treatment, many people are now visiting chiropractors for a variety of medical conditions. While traditional doctors and chiropractors are both licensed and trained medical professionals, there are many differences between the two.
Function
Chiropractors treat conditions affecting and caused by the musculoskeletal system. Traditional physicians treat in all parts of the body.
Abilities
Unlike doctors, chiropractors are not licensed to prescribe medications or perform major surgery. Instead, chiropractors treat conditions using manipulations of the spine, light therapy, ultrasound and heat.
Education
Doctors must receive bachelor's degrees in a field like biology or chemistry prior to attending four-years of medical school, resulting in eight years of post-secondary education. Chiropractors may enter professional training after two years of undergraduate school followed by four years of post secondary education, meaning that in some cases chiropractors receive only six years of schooling.
Training
After graduating from medical school, doctors work as a resident for three to eight years to gain experience in the field before practicing medicine independently. There is no specific required residency for chiropractors after graduation.
Considerations
In some cases, doctors and chiropractors work cooperatively, meaning that you do not have to choose between the care of one or the other.
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