Chiropractors have been providing patients with natural health care for centuries, but the question of whether or not they should be considered doctors still remains. This article looks at the qualifications and expertise chiropractors possess and why some consider them doctors while others do not.
Who are Chiropractors
Chiropractors are health care professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal issues. They use a range of manual therapies, including spinal manipulation, to help patients manage their pain and improve overall well-being. As opposed to medical doctors, chiropractors do not prescribe medications or perform surgery.
Overview of their role in healthcare
Chiropractors play an important role in healthcare. They provide natural, non-invasive treatments that are often effective in treating musculoskeletal conditions and improving overall well-being. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to diagnose and treat patients, including spinal manipulation, manual therapies, exercise prescription, nutritional counseling, lifestyle advice, and more.
Education and Training
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate degree
In order to become a chiropractor, individuals must complete an accredited undergraduate degree in a health-related field. This typically includes at least three years of coursework in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition and other related subjects. After completing their undergraduate degree, individuals must then pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program at an accredited institution.
Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree
The Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree is the highest level of training that a chiropractor can obtain and is required in order to practice the profession. The D.C program typically involves four years of full-time study, including coursework in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition and other related subjects. Additionally, students must complete clinical hours in a chiropractic office and complete a dissertation to demonstrate their knowledge of the profession.
Licensing and Certification
State licensing boards
In order to practice as a chiropractor in the United States, individuals must be licensed by their state’s licensing boards. Each state has its own board that sets the qualifications and requirements for becoming a licensed chiropractor. Generally, these boards require applicants to pass written and practical examinations in order to obtain a license.
National Board of Chiropractic Examiners
The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) is a non-profit organization that is responsible for establishing and administering the national licensing exams for chiropractors. All states require applicants to pass the NBCE’s examinations before they can become licensed to practice in their state.
Scope of Practice
Diagnosis and Treatment
Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. These include neck and back pain, headaches, sciatica, herniated discs, sprains/strains, scoliosis, carpal tunnel syndrome and more.
Referrals and Collaborations
Working alongside other healthcare professionals
Chiropractors often work alongside other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors, physical therapists, and massage therapists. This collaboration allows them to provide comprehensive care for their patients. In some cases, chiropractors might refer their patients to a specialist or another health professional for further evaluation and treatment. Some chiropractors also form collaborative relationships with primary care physicians in order to coordinate patient care.
Recommending additional medical treatments, if necessary
Chiropractors often recommend additional medical treatments if necessary. Depending on the severity of the patient’s condition, chiropractors may refer them to a specialist or other healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. Some chiropractors even form collaborative relationships with primary care physicians in order to coordinate patient care.
Legitimacy and Recognition
Professional Associations
American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) is a professional organization that represents the interests of chiropractors and their patients in the United States. Founded in 1922, the ACA seeks to promote public awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care and advocate for expanded access to services across all healthcare settings. The organization also provides educational resources and certifies qualified practitioners.
International Chiropractors Association (ICA)
The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is a professional organization that represents the interests of chiropractors and their patients around the world. Founded in 1945, the ICA seeks to promote public awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care and advocate for expanded access to services across all healthcare settings. The organization also provides educational resources and certifies qualified practitioners.
Insurance Coverage
Increasing number of insurance companies covering chiropractic care
The increasing number of insurance companies covering chiropractic care has been a major factor in making this form of alternative medicine more accessible to the public. As of 2021, over 90 percent of Americans have access to some form of chiropractic coverage through their health plans.
Medicare and Medicaid coverage
Medicare and Medicaid are government-funded healthcare programs that provide coverage for certain medical services. Chiropractic care is included in the range of services covered by these programs, although the specifics of coverage vary from state to state.
Controversies and Criticisms
Safety Concerns
Risks associated with spinal adjustments
One of the major concerns associated with chiropractic care is the potential risks associated with spinal adjustments. Although most chiropractic treatments are considered safe, there is a small risk of adverse effects, including nerve damage, stroke, and paralysis.
Adverse events and complications
Although chiropractic care is generally considered safe, there is a chance of adverse events or complications. Common adverse events include headaches, neck pain, and soreness following a chiropractic adjustment. These symptoms usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours with rest and/or over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Lack of Scientific Evidence
Limited research supporting the effectiveness of chiropractic interventions
One of the major criticisms leveled against chiropractic care is the lack of scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. While there is some research that suggests that chiropractic interventions may be beneficial for certain conditions, such as neck pain and lower back pain, much of this evidence has been limited in scope and inconsistent in terms of the results.
Need for further studies and robust evidence
The need for further studies and robust evidence to support the effectiveness of chiropractic care is paramount. Many of the existing studies have been limited in scope and have yielded inconclusive results, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the efficacy of various treatments.
Conclusion
Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that has been growing in popularity in recent years. While the evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, many people have found it to be beneficial for treating certain conditions such as neck and lower back pain. Chiropractors are increasingly being included in insurance plans, making this form of treatment more accessible to the public. However, there are risks associated with spinal adjustments and patients should always discuss them with their doctor or chiropractor before beginning treatment.
