What does a Chiropractor do?
Published 3 min read
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, with an emphasis on the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to manipulate the joints, muscles, and connective tissues of the body to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing.
Chiropractor job duties include:
- Perform thorough physical examinations of patients
- Obtain patients’ health histories
- Diagnose patients’ neuromusculoskeletal problems and develop treatment plans
- Administer chiropractic adjustments to correct patients’ misalignments
- Provide nutritional, dietary, and lifestyle counseling to patients
- Recommend therapeutic exercises and stretching techniques for patients to perform at home
- Monitor patients’ progress and modify treatments as needed
- Educate patients about the importance of spinal health and proper posture
- Refer patients to other healthcare providers when necessary
Chiropractor Job Requirements
A chiropractor is a health care professional who treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system, and the effects of these disorders on general health. Chiropractors use manual therapy, including manipulation of the spine, joints, and soft tissues, and also use exercises and other health-care therapies.
Education: Chiropractors must have a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a chiropractic college.
Certification: All 50 states and the District of Columbia require licensure for chiropractors. Specific requirements vary by state, but generally include passing an exam administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Experience: Some states may require chiropractors to complete a period of internship or residency before they can be licensed to practice on their own.
Chiropractor Skills
- Manual dexterity
- Good vision
- Physical strength
- Agility
- Coordination
- Fine motor skills
- Able to work in a standing position for long periods of time
- Able to lift heavy objects
- Able to twist and turn body
- Able to work with small tools
Related: Top Chiropractor Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Chiropractor
There are many steps that one must take to become a chiropractor. The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Once you have completed your undergraduate studies, you must then attend a four-year chiropractic college. Upon graduation from chiropractic college, you must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam. After passing this exam, you will be licensed to practice chiropractic in the state in which you plan to practice.
The most important thing to remember if you want to become a chiropractor is that it takes dedication and hard work. However, if you are passionate about helping people achieve optimal health and wellness, then a career in chiropractic may be the perfect fit for you!
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