Industry Outlook for Chiropractors

Employment is anticipated to grow faster in the chiropractic field than in many other fields during the next five to ten years due to both the aging of the Baby Boomer generation and the general change in attitude toward healthcare and alternative healthcare practices.

Chiropractic practitioners are frequently viewed as working with health related problems associated with the spine; however they may also work with issues related to the body’s nervous muscular and overall skeletal system.

They may also use special equipment such as straps and braces as well as various types of therapies including:

• Heat
• Water
• Massage
• Light
• Electric
• Ultrasound

Counseling regarding changes in lifestyle such as exercise and diet may also be included in the approach to wellness. However, they do not perform surgery or write prescriptions.

People in this field typically work a minimum of 40 hours per week; however they may work more than this minimum. Their work schedule may include evenings and weekends to accommodate patient schedules, although they are not typically on emergency call as many other professional healthcare workers.

Employment Prospects for Chiropractors

The majority of persons employed in the chiropractic field own practices. Those who do not own practices, work either in healthcare facilities; in conjunction with a practice where they do not hold a partnership or in research facilities.

Job Search for Chiropractors

Individuals interested in chiropractic positions may either set up their own practice, purchase an existing practice from a practitioner who is retiring or buy into an existing practice. Other options include taking a salaried position within a private practice or at a healthcare facility, such as a hospital.

Persons who are interesting in setting up their own practices should consider whether the area they are considering already has one or more chiropractic practices. The job board of the job seeker’s alma mater may also prove to be useful in locating employment opportunities.

Cover Letters for Chiropractors

Regardless of which type of employment prospect an individual is considering, a cover letter would be beneficial, if not expected. The cover letter should mention how the candidate learned of the opportunity as well as cover their unique skills and abilities, including any relevant experience and/or internships.

Resumes for Chiropractors

As a professional occupation, the chiropractic field requires the use of a curriculum vitae resume. This resume format allows the candidate to detail larger amounts of data than is normally entered on other resume formats. This vital information includes details regarding internships and publications.

Training & Qualifications for Chiropractors

In order to practice legally, you must be licensed. In most states licensure requires anywhere from 2 to 4 years of undergraduate college along with completion of a four year chiropractic medical course.

The national exam is comprised of four parts and is administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

Completion of annual continuing education is required by most states in order to maintain licensure.