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Job Report Chiropractors
Nature of the Work
Chiropractic is a system of treatment based on the principal that a person's health
is determined largely by the nervous system, and that interference with this system impairs
normal functions and lowers resistance to disease.
Chiropractors take patient histories, conduct physical examinations, and give
treatment for illness and injury. Because of the emphasis on the spine and its position,
most chiropractors use X-rays to help locate the source of patients' difficulties.
Chiropractors treat patients primarily by manual manipulation (adjustments) of parts of the
body, especially the spinal column. In addition to manipulation, chiropractors use water,
light, massage, ultrasound, electric, and heat therapy. They also prescribe diet, supports,
exercise and rest. Most State laws specify the types of supplementary treatment permitted
in chiropractic. Chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or surgery.
Working Conditions
Almost all chiropractors work in private offices that are clean and comfortable. The
average workweek is about 40 hours, usually including some evening and weekend time
to accommodate patients who work. Because most chiropractors are self-employed, they
can set their own hours.
Employment
Chiropractors held about 37,500 jobs in 1990. About 70 percent of active
chiropractors were in solo practice; a small remainder are in group practice or work for other
chiropractors. A small number taught or conducted research at chiropractic colleges.
Chiropractors often locate in small communities-about half work in cities of 50,000
inhabitants or less. This imbalance in the distribution of chiropractors, in part because
many of them establish their practices in areas close to colleges of chiropractic.
Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement
All 50 States and the District of Columbia regulate the practice of chiropractic and
grant licenses to chiropractors who meet educational requirements and pass a State board
examination. Many States have reciprocity agreements that permit chiropractors already
licensed in another State to obtain a license without taking an examination.
The type of practice permitted (scope of practice) and the educational requirements
for a license vary considerably from one State to another, but in general, State licensing
boards require successful completion of a 4-year chiropractic course following 2 years of
college. Thirty-eight State boards recognize only academic training in chiropractic colleges
accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education. Some States require specific college
courses such as English, chemistry, biology, or physics. Several States require that
chiropractors pass a basic science examination. The National Board of Chiropractic
Examiners' test given to chiropractic students is accepted by 48 State boards in place of
a State examination. To maintain licensure, 41 States require that chiropractors complete
a specified number of hours of continuing education each year to remain current in the field.
In 1990, 9 of the 15 chiropractic colleges in the United States were fully accredited
by the Council on Chiropractic Education; 5 others were recognized candidates working
towards accreditation. All chiropractic colleges require applicants to have a minimum of 2
years of undergraduate study, including courses in English, the social sciences, chemistry,
biology, physics, and mathematics.
Chiropractic colleges emphasize courses in manipulation and spinal adjustments.
Most offer a broader curriculum, however, including subjects such as physiotherapy and
nutrition. During the first 2 years, most chiropractic colleges emphasize classroom and
laboratory work in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, while the last
2 years stress clinical experience. Students completing chiropractic education earn the
degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.)
Chiropractic requires keen observation to detect physical abnormalities and
considerable hand dexterity but not unusual strength or endurance. Persons desiring to
become chiropractors should be able to work independently and handle responsibility. The
ability to work with detail is important. Sympathy and understanding are desirable qualities
for dealing effectively with patients.
Newly licensed chiropractors usually seek to setup up a new practice, purchase an
established one, or enter into partnership with an established practitioner. Because of the
financial investment necessary to open and equip an office, some take salaried positions
with established chiropractors to acquire the experience and the funds needed.
Job Outlook
Demand for chiropractic is related to the ability of patients to pay for services, either
directly or through health insurance, and to public acceptance of the profession, which
appears to be growing. At present, newly graduated chiropractors are entering practice
with little difficulty. However, the number of graduates from chiropractic colleges has
increased fourfold since the early 1970's, and enrollments are expected to continue to grow.
As more students graduate, new chiropractors may encounter competition establishing a
practice in areas where other practitioners already are located.
Earnings
In 1990, experienced chiropractors averaged about $66,575, after expenses,
according to the American Chiropractic Association. In Chiropractic, as in other types of
independent practice, earnings are relatively low in the beginning.
As in most other health professions, earnings are influenced by the characteristics
and qualifications of the practitioner, the number of years in practice, and geographic
location.
Self-employed chiropractors must provide for their own health insurance and
retirement.
Related Occupations
Chiropractors diagnose, treat, and work to prevent diseases, disorders, and injuries.
They emphasize the importance of the nervous system for good health. Others whose
professions require similar skills include acupuncturists, audiologists, dentists, naturophatic
doctors, optometrists, osteopaths, podiatrists, speech pathologists, and veterinarians.
Sources of Additional Information
The board of licensing in each State capital can supply information on State license
requirements for chiropractors. Information on license requirements and limitations on the
scope of practice for all States is contained in The Directory available for $10.00 from:
Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards
501 East California Ave., Glendale, CA 91206
General information on chiropractic as a career is available from:
American Chiropractic Association
1916 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
International Chiropractors Association
1901 L Street N.W., Washington, DC 20036
For a list of chiropractic colleges, as well as general information on chiropractic as
a career, contact:
Council on Chiropractic Education
3209 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312
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