Education and Licensing

Chiropractors complete extensive training before they can practice. In the United States, becoming a chiropractor typically requires:

• A minimum of 3 years of undergraduate education (most have a bachelor’s degree)
• 4 years of accredited chiropractic college, resulting in a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree
• Passing national board examinations administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE)
• Meeting individual state licensing requirements, which may include additional exams or continuing education

Chiropractic programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, radiology, nutrition, and clinical diagnosis, along with hands-on clinical training.

What Chiropractors Treat

Chiropractors most commonly treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including:

• Low back pain and lumbar disc problems
• Neck pain and cervical dysfunction
• Sciatica and radiating leg pain
• Headaches and migraines (cervicogenic headaches)
• Shoulder, knee, hip, and ankle pain
• Sports injuries and repetitive strain injuries
• Whiplash from auto accidents
• Scoliosis management
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Chiropractic Techniques

The cornerstone of chiropractic care is the spinal manipulation (also called a chiropractic adjustment) — a controlled, directed force applied to a joint to improve alignment, restore mobility, and reduce pain. Chiropractors may also use:

• Spinal decompression – traction-based therapy to relieve pressure on spinal discs and nerves
• Soft tissue therapy – massage, myofascial release, or instrument-assisted techniques
• Extremity adjustments – manipulation of joints outside the spine (shoulders, knees, ankles)
• Therapeutic ultrasound – sound waves used to reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Electrical stimulation (TENS or EMS) – to relax muscles and manage pain
• Exercise and rehabilitation programs – stretching and strengthening prescribed alongside adjustments
• Nutritional and lifestyle counseling – many chiropractors offer guidance on diet, posture, and ergonomics

What to Expect at a Chiropractic Visit

A first appointment typically begins with a comprehensive health history and physical examination, which may include orthopedic and neurological tests and a posture or gait assessment. X-rays may be taken if needed. The chiropractor will then discuss findings and develop a treatment plan. Subsequent visits are usually shorter and focused on adjustment and any supportive therapies.

During a spinal adjustment, patients may hear a “popping” or “cracking” sound — this is caused by the release of gas bubbles from the joint fluid and is generally not painful. Many patients report feeling immediate relief after an adjustment, while others may experience mild temporary soreness.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

Chiropractic treatment is considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. The most common side effects are temporary soreness, stiffness, or mild aching in the treated areas. Serious complications are rare. Chiropractic adjustments of the neck (cervical manipulation) carry a very small risk of stroke in susceptible individuals; patients with certain conditions such as osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, inflammatory arthritis, or those on blood thinners should discuss risks with both their chiropractor and primary care physician before beginning treatment.

Chiropractic vs. Other Healthcare Providers

Chiropractors work alongside — not in place of — medical doctors. Many patients use chiropractic care as part of a broader pain management or rehabilitation plan that may also involve physical therapy, orthopedics, neurology, or pain medicine. Chiropractors can order imaging and laboratory tests and refer patients to other specialists when appropriate, but they do not prescribe medications or perform surgery.

Finding a Chiropractor

When choosing a chiropractor, look for someone licensed in your state, willing to discuss your health history and explain their approach, and open to collaborating with your other healthcare providers. Asking your primary care physician for a referral, checking the American Chiropractic Association’s provider directory, and reading patient reviews are all useful starting points.