Chiropractic Certification &
Training

An Article By Healthline

Chiropractors must earn a postgraduate degree called a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). It usually takes 4 years to complete. Admission to the program requires at least 90 Semester Hours of undergraduate coursework, and some programs require a bachelor’s degree.

All states also require chiropractors to be licensed. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, but all states require a chiropractor to pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exams.

Some chiropractors specialize in a particular area of chiropractic treatment and go on to do a residency for several more years.

According to the American Chiropractic Association, there are more than 70,000 chiropractors in the United States.

Here are some suggestions for finding a qualified chiropractor in your area:

• Ask for recommendations from your doctor, physical therapist, or other healthcare providers.
• Ask your friends, coworkers, or family members if they have any recommendations.
• Make sure your chiropractor is licensed by your state chiropractic board.
• Try using the American Chiropractic Association’s Find a Doctor Tool
• Schedule a consultation with a chiropractor to see if they’re a good fit before starting treatment. Don’t feel obligated to stick with a chiropractor if you feel they aren’t right for you. It’s OK to consider several chiropractors before you decide on the best one for your needs.

The Bottom Line

Chiropractors use hands-on adjustments to reduce pain and help your body heal itself. They often focus on issues dealing with the spine.

Research has found that chiropractic adjustments may be an effective treatment for various forms of neck or back pain. Seeing a chiropractor may also lower your need to take pain relievers or undergo more invasive treatments like surgery.