Health Career: Chiropractor
Who are chiropractors and what do they do?
Chiropractors are health professionals who diagnose, treat and work to prevent problems of the body's muscular, nervous and skeletal systems, particularly the spine. Instead of prescribing medication, they help people make changes in their lifestyle, such as by suggesting that they sleep different hours or eat different foods, to overcome their health problems. Chiropractors cannot prescribe drugs or perform surgery. They may treat patients with water, light, massage, ultrasound, electricity and heat. They also educate patients on such topics as nutrition, exercise and stress management.
How do chiropractors typically spend their workday?
As a chiropractor, you will generally work in a medical office in a private or group practice. You may also teach or conduct research at a chiropractic college or work in a hospital or health insurance agency. In private practice, for example, you may take a patient’s medical history, lead him or her through physical, neurological (brain-related) and orthopedic examinations and order laboratory tests or X-rays. During an average day, you may treat patients for spine and back problems by applying heat or massage to the sensitive area. You will also work with staff members to regularly update each patient's medical chart and billing account.
What does it take to be a good chiropractor?
If you want to work in the health care field and promote natural methods of treatment, and you like learning about bone and muscle systems, then you should consider becoming a chiropractor. An effective chiropractor is perceptive, compassionate and a good listener. You should also enjoy interacting with people and working with your hands.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of a chiropractor?
Doctor, occupational therapist, physical therapist.
Related links and more information:
- American Chiropractic Association
- The Association of Chiropractic Colleges
- Medline Plus – Chiropractic
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- SACAToday.com – Student American Chiropractic Association
- International Chiropractors Association
