Did you know?

Chiropractic schools have some of the most rigorous educational standards among the health care industry. Applicants are required to complete nearly four years of pre-medical studies—including physics, biology, organic/inorganic chemistry, psychology, laboratory studies—for acceptance, and a minimum of 4,200 classroom, lab, and clinical training hours are required to earn a degree.

Chiropractors are educated as primary-contact health providers, which means they’re licensed to diagnose and refer patients to the appropriate health care specialist when needed. Because they specialize in the treatment of conditions related to the muscles, ligaments, nerves, and joints, Doctors of Chiropractic receive advanced training in the spine, nervous and musculoskeletal systems. They’re also extensively trained in orthopedics, neurology, physiology and clinical diagnosis.

Chiropractors receive extensive training in anatomy, spending a good chunk of their first year in the lab studying human cadavers. This gives students an in-depth understanding of how the body works. Extensive study in biomechanics further teaches them how the body and joints move, which is essential for properly performing a chiropractic adjustment.

Chiropractors also receive advanced training in subjects such as nutrition, exercise, and rehabilitation, all of which attribute to a holistic, comprehensive approach to health care that better serves patients.

Chiropractors are well versed in laboratory procedures and diagnostic imaging. They’re licensed to interpret x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Lastly, in order to become fully licensed and earn their Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree, chiropractic students must pass four National Board Examinations administered and approved by an accredited agency that is fully recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.