Chiropractic Training
Also called chiropractic physicians and doctors of chiropractic, chiropractors accounted for approximately 49,100 jobs in the United States 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.
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Function
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Formal training teaches prospective chiropractors how to 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
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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.
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Features
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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
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To graduate, chiropractic students must complete at least 4,200 hours of classroom, clinical and laboratory training combined.
Prerequisites
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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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References
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- Photo Credit human anatomy showing the skeleton from the back image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
