Ask the Chiropractor: Navigating the Educational Pathway to Chiropractic Care
Introduction to Educational Pathway
Hello, Dr. Brant Hulsebus here! Welcome to another edition of *Ask the Chiropractor*. In this little podcast, I answer questions about chiropractic care. I’m a chiropractor in Rockford, Illinois, and proud to be the team chiropractor for the Rockford IceHogs, the Chicago Blackhawks’ AHL affiliates. Today we focus on the educational pathway to becoming a chiropractor.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
In the IceHogs’ locker room, we have a solid medical team including an ER doctor, a family physician, various specialists, and myself. Today, let’s discuss how someone becomes a chiropractor and what education they undergo, particularly in Illinois.
Starting the Journey
Let’s look at the educational pathway. Most chiropractors begin with either 90 college credit hours or a Bachelor’s of Science degree. Back when I started, the common path was pre-med, but today degrees like kinesiology are more popular. If a student starts with 90 hours, they can complete their Bachelor’s at chiropractic school. However, some states have unique requirements about where you must earn your Bachelor’s degree.
Chiropractic School
I went to Palmer College of Chiropractic, where it all began. Chiropractic school typically lasts 10 trimesters over three and a third years. The first year focuses heavily on sciences, including classes like cadaver labs, anatomy, and the nervous system.
The second year involves learning physical diagnosis, pathologies, and even radiology because chiropractors are trained to take and read x-rays. National boards at various levels ensure we are well-prepared.
Hands-On Learning
In the final year, students practice chiropractic adjustments, guided by instructors. Schools vary in how much they focus on this. At Palmer, we had multiple classes on different parts of the body, but some schools only have one.
Graduation Requirements
After completing coursework, students must perform 300 chiropractic visits, including exams and x-rays, to graduate. Then, they can apply for a state license, which includes passing national and sometimes additional state exams.
Continuing Education
In Illinois, chiropractors need 60 classroom hours and extra reading or research every three years to maintain their license. Education never stops, even after graduation.
Discrediting Misconceptions
Chiropractic schooling is extensive, contrary to what some say in pop culture. It’s not a quick degree. Even before federally recognized, my grandfather worked to ensure chiropractic education was legitimate. Today, chiropractic schools follow strict guidelines like other health institutions.
Conclusion
Chiropractic care requires an intense educational journey to provide proper care. Feel free to browse palmer.edu to learn more. If you have questions, leave a message, and maybe I’ll answer in the next podcast! Thanks for tuning in. I look forward to educating you further.
FINAL NOTE
Remember, if you have a question about chiropractic care, the best person to ask is a chiropractor. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next week! Want more? First, check out the video link above. Secondly, go to our blog page. Lastly, listen to our podcast. And if you want to take the same supplements Dr Hulsebus takes click here to pick them up next time you’re in.