Most of us have experienced joint, nerve, or muscle pain at some point. And chances are, you’re one of the 44% of adult Americans considering visiting a chiropractor. But have you ever thought about becoming one?
This article will dive into the world of high-paying jobs available with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, shedding light on the career paths that go far beyond what you might think of for a chiropractor.
What is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine?
A Doctor of Chiropractic specializes in treating bone, nerve, muscle, and ligament issues. They have training and knowledge beyond many healthcare practitioners as doctors who play essential roles in reducing patient pain.
One major thing that sets chiropractors apart from medical doctors is that they don’t prescribe medications and instead focus on treating the source of pain, aiming to address the root cause of a problem rather than treating symptoms.
How do I get my Doctor of Chiropractic degree?
To become a Doctor of Chiropractic, you must obtain this advanced degree from an accredited chiropractic degree program. Requirements for a Chiropractic degree vary slightly depending on the state, university, and program. For example, most states require students to have completed a bachelor’s degree at the time of application.
At University of Bridgeport, Doctor of Chiropractic students must have a:
- Bachelor’s degree or a minimum of 90 credits completed
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher within the best ninety credits
- At minimum 24 credits in the physical and life sciences, with a C or better (half of which must contain labs)
- Application
- Official transcripts from all schools attended
- One letter of recommendation from a healthcare practitioner
- 250-500 word personal statement
Clinical training follows, which prepares aspiring chiropractors for real-world scenarios. Licensing is a mandatory step to practicing as a chiropractor, and it is done through the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE).
4 high-paying jobs with a Chiropractic degree
So what does all the Chiropractic schooling mean for your career options? There are a few choices to explore, but remember that a Doctor of Chiropractic degree opens many doors, such as:
- Solo practitioner: For those seeking independence, owning and operating a personal clinic allows chiropractors to engage with patients and build their practice directly.
- Chiropractor for a sports team: Many sports teams recognize the value of chiropractic care and employ personal chiropractors to boost the well-being and performance of their athletes.
- Educator: Sharing knowledge and expertise is a fulfilling option. Becoming an educator allows chiropractors to guide future professionals in the field.
- Associate with a partnership: Partnering with a colleague in a shared practice is a popular choice, offering the opportunity to divide clients and foster a supportive professional environment.
As of 2022, the median chiropractor salary stands at $75,380 per year, with an anticipated 9% growth in employment over the next decade. It’s a field with a substantial impact and diverse job opportunities that contribute significantly to clients’ well-being.
While all chiropractic roles are impactful, the job with the highest salary is that of a chiropractic physician. However, regardless of the specific role, chiropractors share the goal of helping people, meaning any career path you choose will be meaningful.
Looking for a career in patient care? Learn more about earning your Chiropractic degree today!
Emerging technologies and innovations in chiropractic care
Chiropractic care, like the medical field at large, is working to implement technological advancements as quickly and responsibly as possible. As we step into the future, new technologies are reshaping how chiropractors diagnose and treat their patients. These innovations not only enhance patient care but also improve overall efficiency.
- Digital imaging and diagnostic tools: Traditional X-rays have been a cornerstone in chiropractic diagnostics, but emerging technologies like digital radiography and advanced imaging techniques are taking center stage. These provide more precise insights into musculoskeletal issues, allowing chiropractors to tailor treatments more precisely.
- Telehealth and virtual consultations: Telehealth has transformed the healthcare landscape, and chiropractic care is no exception. Chiropractors can now conduct virtual consultations, offer advice and exercises, and monitor patients’ progress remotely.
New treatment approaches in chiropractic care
Chiropractic care in the 21st century has begun to focus on more integrative and holistic approaches that address patients’ overall well-being. These treatment methods aim to combine traditional chiropractic adjustments with complementary therapies to achieve more comprehensive results. Treatments like:
- Functional medicine integration: Chiropractors are now integrating functional medicine into their practices at a higher rate. This approach seeks to identify the root causes of health issues, considering factors such as lifestyle, nutrition, and genetics. By adopting a functional medicine perspective, chiropractors can offer more personalized care.
- Collaborative care models: Chiropractors also participate in collaborative care models, working alongside medical doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals. This approach helps patients receive well-rounded care, and chiropractors contribute their expertise to a broader healthcare team.
Evolving roles for chiropractors in healthcare
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, so does the role of a chiropractor. Beyond the traditional solo practitioner option, chiropractors these days pursue diverse career paths that utilize musculoskeletal health expertise in creative ways, such as:
- Corporate wellness programs: Chiropractors create and implement corporate wellness programs, providing on-site consultations, ergonomic assessments, and preventive care strategies for employees. This proactive approach aims to enhance employee well-being, reduce workplace injuries, and improve productivity.
- Research and education: With the growing recognition of chiropractic care, many practitioners are involved in research and educational roles. This includes contributing to academic institutions, conducting clinical studies, and educating the next generation of chiropractors.
- Community health initiatives: Chiropractors actively participate in community health initiatives by organizing workshops, health fairs, and outreach programs. By interacting with their communities, chiropractors raise awareness about the benefits of chiropractic care.
By embracing emerging technologies, treatments, and evolving roles, chiropractors aren’t merely adapting to a changing career landscape but pioneering a future where holistic musculoskeletal health is central to overall well-being.
If you’re considering a career as a Doctor of Chiropractic, then don’t wait—apply today! A broad range of opportunities and a lifetime of career fulfillment await you.