Chiropractor vs. Physician: Understanding the Differences

A licensed chiropractor is a trained medical practitioner and can be considered a chiropractic doctor or physician. However, a chiropractor does not receive the same training as a medical doctor.

Definition

• A chiropractor treats patients with musculoskeletal problems, most often treating spinal conditions or injuries. Chiropractors stress the importance of spinal and skeletal health on overall physical health.

Requirements

• The requirements for licensure vary by state, and chiropractors can practice only in the state where they have been licensed. Most states require completion of a 4-year program at a chiropractic college and a test administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Graduates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic.

Additional Training

• Postdoctoral training is also possible for chiropractors who want to further specialize in such fields as neurology, rehabilitation, or pediatrics.

History

• Chiropractic became a formal type of health care in the 1890s, when D. D. Palmer began his first clinic. Chiropractic is still considered an alternative form of medicine.

Considerations

• Chiropractic has a long history of being viewed suspiciously by the medical establishment. However, It is a popular form of alternative health care because it eschews medication or surgery in its application.