Top 11 Chiropractor Certifications

Certifications are important for a chiropractor in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the chiropractor has the knowledge and skill necessary to perform their duties. Certifications also provide proof of continuing education, which is often required by many states for chiropractors to remain licensed. In addition, certifications can help chiropractors stand out from other applicants and give them an edge when it comes to job opportunities. Lastly, certain certifications may also be required or preferred by certain employers, making them a valuable asset for any chiropractor looking to advance their career.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Chiropractors and explain how they can help to advance a chiropractor's career.

What are Chiropractor Certifications?

Chiropractor certification is a process of verifying that an individual has met certain criteria in order to be recognized as a qualified and competent chiropractor. This certification is granted by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) after successful completion of the national board exams. The NBCE establishes the standards for chiropractic education, training, and practice.

Having this certification can help a chiropractor demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality care and maintaining professional excellence. It also allows them to gain credibility among other healthcare professionals, patients, and employers. In addition, it can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Furthermore, having this certification may also lead to greater reimbursement rates from insurance companies since they recognize certified chiropractors as being more qualified than those without certification. Finally, it can give chiropractors access to continuing education opportunities and resources which can help them stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in the field.

Pro tip: Make sure to research the chiropractor certification process thoroughly before beginning it. Check for any state-specific requirements, such as passing examinations or completing continuing education credits, and make sure you are familiar with the rules and regulations that govern chiropractic practice in your area.

Related: What does a Chiropractor do?

Top 11 Chiropractor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Chiropractors today.

1. Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP)

A Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) is a chiropractor who has completed additional training and certification in sports medicine. This certification provides the chiropractor with an advanced understanding of sports injuries, prevention, and rehabilitation. The CCSP designation requires a minimum of 200 hours of post-graduate education in the areas of sports medicine, orthopedics, nutrition, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and injury management.

The CCSP program is administered by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP). To become certified as a CCSP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Hold an active license to practice chiropractic in the United States or Canada

2. Have completed at least 200 hours of post-graduate education in sports medicine

3. Have at least two years of clinical experience in sports medicine

4. Pass a written examination administered by ACBSP

5. Complete an oral examination administered by ACBSP

6. Maintain continuing education credits every three years to maintain certification status

7. Abide by the ACBSP Code of Ethics

The cost to become certified as a CCSP varies depending on the state/province where you are located and how you choose to pursue your training and certification process. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$3000 USD depending on your specific circumstances. The entire process typically takes between 6 months - 1 year to complete all requirements for certification.

2. Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (DACBSP)

The Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (DACBSP) is a certification program offered by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP). The DACBSP is an advanced level of training and certification for chiropractors who specialize in sports medicine. It requires a minimum of 300 hours of post-doctoral education and clinical experience, as well as passing a comprehensive written examination.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for the DACBSP, depending on how much time you can devote to studying. The first step is to complete the required coursework, which includes classes in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, pathology and diagnosis. You must also pass an exam that tests your knowledge in these areas. After completing all coursework and passing the exam, you will need to submit your application to ACBSP for review and approval.

Once approved, you will be eligible to take the final written exam. This exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as sports injuries, rehabilitation techniques and patient management. Upon successful completion of this exam, you will receive your DACBSP certification.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on where you take your courses and exams. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$6,000 USD depending on how many courses are taken and whether or not any additional fees are required.

3. Certified Chiropractic Extremity Practitioner (CCEP)

A Certified Chiropractic Extremity Practitioner (CCEP) is a specialized certification for chiropractors who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in the area of extremity care. This certification allows chiropractors to better diagnose, treat, and manage conditions affecting the extremities such as the arms, legs, hands, feet, and other appendages. The CCEP program focuses on evidence-based practice in order to provide patients with safe and effective treatment plans.

The CCEP program is offered by the International Chiropractic Association (ICA). To obtain this certification, applicants must first complete a minimum of 60 hours of approved coursework in extremity care. This includes courses on anatomy and biomechanics of the extremities, diagnosis, treatment protocols, and patient management. After completing the required coursework, applicants must pass an exam administered by ICA that tests their knowledge and skills in this area.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $4,000 USD to become certified as a CCEP practitioner.

Overall, becoming a Certified Chiropractic Extremity Practitioner requires dedication and commitment but can be very rewarding for those who are passionate about providing quality care to their patients.

4. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) are professionals who use scientific principles to design, implement, and monitor safe and effective exercise programs for athletes and other individuals. CSCSs typically specialize in the areas of strength training, power development, speed development, agility training, plyometrics, injury prevention, nutrition counseling, and program design.

The CSCS certification is offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). To become certified as a CSCS you must meet certain educational requirements and pass an exam. The educational requirements include a bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field from an accredited college or university; have at least one year of full-time experience as a strength and conditioning coach; complete an approved internship; attend an NSCA-approved review course; and pass the CSCS exam.

The CSCS exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy & physiology, biomechanics & kinesiology, exercise physiology & nutrition, testing & evaluation, program design & implementation, organization & administration of strength & conditioning programs. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of becoming a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist varies depending on your individual situation. The cost to take the exam is $300 for NSCA members ($350 for non-members). Additionally there may be costs associated with completing an internship or taking a review course if required.

5. Certified Functional Manual Therapist (CFMT)

Certified Functional Manual Therapist (CFMT) is a certification program designed to provide therapists with the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to effectively assess, diagnose and treat musculoskeletal dysfunctions. The program is based on the principles of manual therapy, which focuses on restoring normal movement patterns and improving joint mobility, flexibility and strength.

It takes approximately two years to complete the CFMT program. It consists of three levels of courses that include online lectures, hands-on lab sessions, case studies and a final exam. The courses are divided into three sections: Foundations of Manual Therapy; Advanced Manual Therapy Techniques; and Clinical Application of Manual Therapy.

To become certified as a CFMT, you must first complete all three levels of courses and pass the final exam. You must also have at least one year of experience in clinical practice or teaching in manual therapy before you can take the exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification from the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (IAOM).

The cost for the CFMT program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,500 for all three levels plus any additional fees such as registration or examination fees.

6. Certified Chiropractic Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP)

A Certified Chiropractic Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) is a chiropractor who has completed additional training and testing in order to specialize in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. CCRPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with physical impairments that can result from injury or disease. They use a variety of techniques including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, modalities, and rehabilitative therapies to help restore function and reduce pain.

The process of becoming a CCRP typically takes 18-24 months to complete depending on the program chosen. The requirements for certification vary by program but generally include completing an approved course of study, passing an exam, and completing a certain number of hours of continuing education each year.

In order to become certified as a CCRP, you must first obtain your Doctorate in Chiropractic from an accredited school. After graduating from chiropractic school, you can then apply for admission into one of the accredited CCRP programs offered by various universities or organizations. Once accepted into the program, you will need to complete all of the required courses and pass the certification exam in order to receive your CCRP designation.

The cost for obtaining a CCRP designation varies depending on the program chosen but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD. This cost includes tuition fees for courses taken as well as any other associated costs such as books or materials needed for completion of the program.

7. Diplomate in Clinical Nutrition (DCN)

Diplomate in Clinical Nutrition (DCN) is a post-graduate certification program offered by the American Board of Nutrition (ABN). It is designed to provide advanced training and education in clinical nutrition and to prepare individuals for a career as a clinical nutrition specialist. The DCN program requires completion of an accredited master’s degree program in nutrition, a minimum of 1,500 hours of supervised practice experience, passing the ABN board examination, and completing continuing education requirements.

The DCN program typically takes two to three years to complete. To get the DCN certification, you must first complete an accredited master’s degree program in nutrition. After that, you must have at least 1,500 hours of supervised practice experience in clinical nutrition. You then need to pass the ABN board examination and complete continuing education requirements as required by the ABN.

The cost of obtaining the DCN certification varies depending on where you are getting your degree from and how much experience you have. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $10,000-$20,000 or more for tuition alone. Additional costs include application fees for the ABN exam ($200), exam fees ($400), study materials ($100-$300), and any other miscellaneous expenses associated with completing your degree or gaining additional experience.

8. Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT)

Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) is a certification program for physical therapists and other healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. The COMT certification is designed to demonstrate the highest level of proficiency in manual therapy techniques and orthopedic assessment skills.

The COMT program is offered by the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (IAOM). It consists of three levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Each level requires completion of coursework, clinical experience, and successful passing of an exam. To become certified at any level, you must complete all required courses and pass the corresponding exam.

Level 1 takes approximately one year to complete and costs $1,500. Level 2 takes approximately two years to complete and costs $2,000. Level 3 takes approximately three years to complete and costs $3,000.

To get started with the COMT program, you must first register with IAOM as a student member. You can do this online or by mail-in registration form. After registering with IAOM, you will be able to access their online learning platform where you can begin your coursework for each level. Once you have completed all requirements for a given level, you can take the corresponding exam to become certified at that level.

9. Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB)

The Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB) is a post-doctoral certification program that recognizes chiropractors who have achieved a high level of expertise in neurology and related disciplines. The DACNB is administered by the American Chiropractic Association's Council on Neurology, and it requires applicants to have completed an advanced degree such as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) or Doctor of Science (DCSc).

The DACNB certification program consists of three parts: an online course, an oral examination, and a written examination. The online course covers topics such as neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, clinical neurology, and differential diagnosis. The oral exam focuses on the application of neurological principles to patient care. The written exam tests knowledge in areas such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, and diagnostic imaging.

The process for obtaining the DACNB certification typically takes between two and four years to complete. During this time, applicants must meet all requirements for each part of the program. These include completing the online course with a passing grade; passing both the oral and written examinations; submitting letters of recommendation from colleagues; providing proof of continuing education credits; submitting case studies; and paying applicable fees.

The cost for obtaining DACNB certification varies depending on when you apply and which courses you take. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 USD.

10. Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Practitioner (CCBP)

Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Practitioner (CCBP) is a post-doctoral certification program for chiropractors. It is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of chiropractors in the field of spinal rehabilitation, including corrective exercise and postural correction. The program focuses on the biomechanics and physiology of the spine, as well as evidence-based practice.

The CCBP certification requires a minimum of 400 hours of study over two years, including both online coursework and hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum covers topics such as anatomy, biomechanics, kinesiology, pathology, rehabilitation exercises, posture analysis and correction techniques. After completing the required coursework and clinical experience, practitioners must pass a written exam to become certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Practitioner varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000-$10,000 USD for tuition and fees. In addition to tuition costs, there may be additional expenses such as travel costs for attending conferences or workshops related to CCBP training.

Overall, becoming a Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Practitioner requires dedication and commitment but can be an invaluable asset for any chiropractor looking to specialize in spinal rehabilitation or improve their overall practice.

11. Certified Medical Acupuncture Provider (CMAP).

Certified Medical Acupuncture Provider (CMAP) is a certification program for medical professionals who wish to practice acupuncture. This certification program is offered by the American Board of Medical Acupuncture (ABMA). The CMAP certification focuses on providing evidence-based, safe and effective acupuncture treatments to patients.

It takes approximately 18 months to complete the requirements for the CMAP certification. The program consists of three components: online coursework, clinical experience and an exam. The online coursework includes topics such as anatomy and physiology, traditional Chinese medicine theory, and medical acupuncture techniques. Clinical experience includes observing experienced practitioners in a clinical setting and performing supervised treatments on real patients. Finally, the exam tests knowledge of both the theoretical and practical aspects of medical acupuncture.

To get certified as a CMAP provider, you must be a licensed healthcare professional in good standing with your state licensing board or national certifying body. You must also have completed at least 200 hours of didactic education in medical acupuncture from an accredited institution or program approved by ABMA. Additionally, you must have completed at least 100 hours of supervised clinical experience in medical acupuncture before taking the exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a CMAP provider varies depending on which institution or program you choose to complete your training through. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 - $5,000 USD for tuition alone; other costs may include textbooks and supplies, travel expenses for clinical rotations/observations, and examination fees ($500 USD).

Do You Really Need a Chiropractor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their specific circumstances. If you are looking to pursue a career in chiropractic care, then yes, a chiropractor certificate is typically required. In order to become licensed as a chiropractor, most states require that you complete an accredited course of study and pass both written and practical exams. Additionally, many employers prefer applicants who have completed a professional certification program or at least hold some form of credentialing in the field.

Chiropractors are responsible for diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, so having a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathology and biomechanics is essential for providing quality care. A chiropractor certificate can provide evidence that you have acquired this knowledge and understand how to apply it clinically. It can also demonstrate your commitment to continuing education in the field as well as provide recognition for your accomplishments.

Finally, having a chiropractor certificate may also be beneficial when seeking employment or advancement within the profession. It can make you stand out from other applicants who do not possess such credentials and may even provide access to higher paying jobs or positions with more responsibility. Ultimately, whether or not you need a chiropractor certificate will depend on your own personal goals and ambitions within the field.

Related: Chiropractor Resume Examples

FAQs About Chiropractor Certifications

1. What certifications do chiropractors need?

Answer: Chiropractors must be licensed by their state and typically require a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree from an accredited chiropractic college. Some states also require additional certifications or specialties.

2. How long does it take to become a certified chiropractor?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become a certified chiropractor varies depending on the educational requirements in your state, but typically ranges from three to four years of study at an accredited chiropractic school.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for chiropractor certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that chiropractors complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their license and certification status. The number of hours required varies by state, so it’s best to check with your local board for specific requirements.

4. Is there any type of board certification available for chiropractors?

Answer: Yes, the American Board of Chiropractic Specialties (ABCS) offers specialty certifications in several areas such as sports medicine, orthopedics and neurology. This type of certification is not mandatory but can help differentiate one practitioner from another and demonstrate expertise in a particular field.

5. What other certifications can I pursue as a chiropractor?

Answer: In addition to specialty certifications through the ABCS, some practitioners may choose to pursue additional certifications such as diplomate status through the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE). Other options include pursuing acupuncture or nutrition certifications or joining professional organizations such as the American Chiropractic Association (ACA).