Doctors of chiropractic receive an education as primary healthcare providers. They focus on diagnosis and treatment of health conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, which is comprised of muscles, ligaments, and joints in the spine and extremities, as well as the associated nerves. Education to become a Doctor of Chiropractic is long and intensive.
Most chiropractors acquire four years of pre-medical undergraduate studies before applying to a chiropractic program. This is followed by four to five years in an accredited chiropractic college studying human anatomy, physiology, orthopedics, neurology, clinical diagnosis and laboratory procedures, diagnostic imaging, exercise, nutrition, rehabilitation and other course work. Chiropractic education also includes a lot of time training in clinical technique to hone their expertise in manipulative procedures.
Altogether, a student must gain 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory and clinical experience to be awarded a Doctor of Chiropractic certificate from an accredited school.