Chiropractors specialize in musculoskeletal health issues.
Also called chiropractic physicians and doctors of chiropractic, chiropractors accounted for approximately 49,100 jobs in the in 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Most have an independent practice, and some specialize in areas such as orthopedics and pediatrics.
Function
Formal training teaches prospective chiropractors properly treat and diagnose health problems that arise from musculoskeletal issues, which are usually related to misalignments in the spine that affect the nervous system.
Types
Students attend chiropractic training programs at four-year colleges, and graduates earn a Doctor of Chiropractic or D.C. degree. The Council on Chiropractic Education accredited 15 D.C. programs throughout the United States in April 2010.
Features
Chiropractic students typically complete coursework and laboratory work in anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, physiology and public health during the first two years. The final two years may include classes in spinal adjustment and manipulation, and clinical training in diagnosis, geriatrics, neurology, nutrition, orthopedics and physiotherapy.
Requirements
To graduate, chiropractic students must complete at least 4,200 hours of classroom, clinical and laboratory training combined.
Prerequisites
Chiropractic programs require a bachelor's degree or at least 90 hours of coursework towards a bachelor's degree. Preferred classes include biology, English, inorganic and organic chemistry, physics and psychology.
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