|
Pathway: Preventive Services
Job: Chiropractor
Job Description
Chiropractors (also known as doctors of chiropractic (DC) or chiropractic physicians) treat and work to prevent bodily disorders and injuries. They diagnose and help patients with health problems associated with the body’s muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine. Chiropractors provide holistic, natural, drugless,
no surgical health treatments, and rely on the body’s inherent recuperative abilities. They may also have administrative responsibilities.
Necessary Education
2-4 years of undergraduate education; 4-year Chiropractic College leading to the Doctor of Chiropractic Degree.
Helpful High School Courses
English, Mathematics, Health, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Psychology, Business courses
Working Conditions
- Work in clean, comfortable offices
- Work 40 or more hours a week
- May work evenings or weekends to accommodate patients
- Sometimes stand for long periods of time
- Need to use appropriate safety measures when taking x-rays
Salary Range
- 2003, Delaware average annual salary,
$50,420
- 2003, Delaware average hourly wage,
$24.24
Career Ladder Information
- Most are in solo practice; others are in group practice, work for other chiropractors, teach, conduct research at chiropractic institutions, or work in hospitals and clinics
- Some specialize in sports injuries, neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, nutrition, internal disorders, or diagnostic imaging
- All States and the District of Columbia regulate chiropractic practices and licenses to those who meet established educational and examination requirements
- Chiropractors can only practice in States where they are licensed
Personal Qualities and Interests
You:
- Have keen observation
- Have good hand dexterity
- Are able to work independently and handle responsibility
- Have empathy, understanding, and the desire to help others
- Are willing to take continuing education courses to maintain licensure
Did you know?
- Chiropractic care of back, neck, extremities, and other joint damage has become more accepted as a result of recent research and changing attitudes. Although more insurance plans now cover chiropractic services, the extent of such coverage varies among plans
- Job prospects should be good
Additional Information
|
