H.O.T. GUIDE
Health Occupations
& Technology

Chiropractor

To be a successful Chiropractor you should…

  • have keen observation to detect physical abnormalities
  • have considerable hand dexterity to perform adjustments, but not unusual strength or endurance
  • be empathetic, understanding, and have the desire to help others

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What will my job be like?

Chiropractors, or Doctors of Chiropractic (DC), treat patients with manipulation of the spinal column and other articulations of the body to correct abnormalities believed to be caused by interference with the nervous system. Chiropractors may utilize supplementary measures, such as exercise, rest, water, light, heat, and nutritional therapy.

Chiropractors may specialize in:

  • Athletic Injuries
  • Internal Disorders
  • Neurology
  • Nutrition
  • Orthopedics

Where could I work?

Chiropractors work in private practice or may join other health care professionals to form a group practice, sometimes in affiliation with a private clinic or a hospital. Some chiropractors provide in-home care.

Other workplace settings:

  • Chiropractic Schools
  • Health Maintenance Organizations

What is the average annual salary?

$70,700


What is the future of this career?

The BLS reports employment of chiropractors is projected to grow 11 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 1,800 openings for chiropractors are projected each year, average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.


What type of education and/or training do I need?

Most chiropractic colleges require at least two years of undergraduate education, and an increasing number require a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Boards require completion of a 4-year chiropractic college course at an accredited program leading to the Doctor of Chiropractic degree.


Where can I get the education and/or training?

  • University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic, Bridgeport

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is required in the state of Connecticut. Prerequisite: Connecticut requires two years (60 semester hours) of pre-professional college education; approved Chiropractic school; National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, Parts I, II, III, IV and physiotherapy.

Please visit the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health website for more information.


Where can I get more information?

American Chiropractic Association
1701 Clarendon Boulevard
Arlington, VA   22209
(703) 276-8800
www.acatoday.org/index.cfm

International Chiropractors Association
6400 Arlington Boulevard, Suite 650
Falls Church, VA   22042
(703) 528-5000
www.chiropractic.org