Have you ever wondered about your Mankato chiropractor’s education and how it compares to other healthcare professionals? Knowing your doctor’s educational background and certifications can be important in choosing the right healthcare provider for you.
The word “doctor” usually implies extensive academic training, but each healthcare specialist has a unique educational program before practicing in the field. The doctors at Pivotal Chiropractic & Wellness have put together this article to help you understand your chiropractor’s education and how it may impact your care.
Educational Requirements for a Chiropractor
Different states have different rules about what chiropractors have to do. Before they can get into a chiropractic college, they usually have to finish pre-medical studies as an undergraduate and get a bachelor’s degree. After a very thorough review process, the Department of Education gives accreditation to chiropractic colleges.
Your chiropractor studies anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, pathology, biochemistry, neuromuscular and orthopedic evaluation, pediatric and geriatric care, microbiology, nutrition, immunology, radiology, philosophy, and clinical research for at least 4,200 hours at a chiropractic college. Before a student moves on to clinical work, he or she is tested on this education. The student will usually spend at least 1,000 hours at a campus clinic under the supervision of a clinic doctor, where they will learn how to diagnose and treat patients in real clinical situations.
Chiropractors have to pass a series of four national board exams that test their knowledge of the basic sciences, clinical sciences, physiological therapeutics, diagnostic imaging, case management, and clinical competency. Chiropractors must get a license from their state’s licensing agency after they finish school and pass the national board exams.
Continuing Education for Chiropractors
After meeting these requirements, chiropractors may be required to complete additional approved coursework at designated times to maintain their license, depending on their state.
Comparing a Chiropractor’s Education to Other Healthcare Professionals
Your chiropractor has a comprehensive education and understands more about your health than just treating your back. To help understand this, let’s compare a chiropractor’s education to a medical doctor’s. Before starting clinical studies, the typical chiropractic student has completed approximately 2,419 hours of academic work, while the majority of medical students have completed around 2,047 hours.
While each healthcare discipline has its strengths, chiropractic students receive more hours of study in anatomy, embryology, physiology, biochemistry, diagnosis, x-ray, and orthopedics. In comparison, medical practitioners receive more classroom hours studying pathology, psychology, and obstetrics.
It’s important to keep in mind that each doctor, even within the same healthcare discipline, has different strengths and weaknesses and approaches healing differently. The most important thing is to find a doctor who understands your needs and has the tools to provide the most appropriate care.
If you have any questions, the team at Pivotal Chiropractic & Wellness is here to help. Contact us today.
