Chiropractor

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Work Tasks

CHIROPRACTORS diagnose and treat patients whose health problems are related to the body's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine. They manually manipulate or adjust spinal column and other areas. They may use water, light, massage, heat, and other kinds of therapy. They use natural, drug-free, non-surgical health treatments, and rely on the body's natural ability to get better. They also recommend lifestyle changes, such as eating, exercise, and sleeping habits, to their patients. They consult with and refer patients to other physicians when needed.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $104,500 average per year ($50.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (26,200 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.9% per year)

Entry Requirements

All states require CHIROPRACTORS to be licensed in the state where they practice. Most licensing boards require completion of a 4-year chiropractic college course after at least 2 years of undergraduate study (4 years in some states), and passing a state board exam. In the first 2 years, most chiropractic programs emphasize classroom and lab work in basic science such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pathology. The last 2 years emphasize manipulation and spinal adjustments, and provide experience in physical and lab diagnosis, neurology, orthopedics, geriatrics, physiotherapy, and nutrition.