Want to become a doctor? Are you intrigued by alternatives to drugs and surgery?
Chiropractors provide
treatment without the use of drugs or surgery for patients with joint and musculo-skeletal
problems, like disc injuries,
sports injuries, sprains, strains, and other conditions that can result from
functional changes in the nervous system, like headaches, allergies, asthma,
and menstrual cramps.
Typical day
Chiropractors use spinal
manipulation as their primary focus for the purpose of relieving interference
with normal nerve function. They also explore other
natural treatments for their patients, including lifestyle changes, such as
exercise and nutrition, and alternative options, such as massage, acupuncture
and heat therapy.
Dr. Scott Garber, owner of Chiropractic Works in Lenox, Mass., says he enjoys providing comfort to people who are suffering and making a difference in their lives.
Garber’s life changed dramatically after his own experience visiting a chiropractor. At 36, he had never attended college and was struggling with his health. “It was an awakening experience,” he says. Not only did he get his health back on track, but he became inspired to become a chiropractor.
Education, skills
To
gain admission to a chiropractic college, prospective students must
obtain the same pre-professional prerequisites as for medical students, including undergraduate study in biology,
chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, psychology, and English.
As a student at Parker Chiropractic College (parkercc.edu) in Dallas, Garber took classes in biology and human body systems. “The first year or two is very similar to medical school,” he says.
There are now 18 chiropractic schools in the United States,
and they all require at least five academic
years of study after college. On top of the bachelor’s degree most programs require for admission, and chiropractic college, a Doctor of Chiropractic degree is a nine-year commitment.
Before you can begin practicing, you must also pass your state’s licensing exam and national Board exams, which often include a written and practical exam. And don’t forget about the clinic and lab hours required to graduate and take the exam. During the last two years of a chiropractic program, you’ll get hands-on experience working on your classmates and patients.
Is it for you?
Today, Garber owns his own practice and sets his own hours. He typically works on patients three days a week. He spends the rest of the week doing paperwork at home. “I can actually have a good quality of life without working my life away,” Garber says.
Good news for future chiropractors’ pockets: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), the average salary for chiropractors is $65,220, and the career is expected to grow as more patients accept alternative health care.
To discover other careers, visit nextSTEPmag.com/careers.
|
NextStepU