by Dr. Scott Briggs

Last week, I shared with you the benefits of seeing a chiropractor. I also discussed what chiropractic is, and what it can do. I shared it from a “health” perspective, and how it can be beneficial to so many.

This week I would like to do a bit of follow up to that discussion. Often times chiropractors will hear things like, “they aren’t real doctors” or “do they really know what they are doing.” I have to admit– chiropractic (as a profession) has been terrible at marketing. There has not been enough done to truly educate the public on what we do and why it matters.

Today, I want to share with you information on our education. We are not less educated than those who pursue a medical degree, we just tend to focus on some different areas. I am sharing information that was originally presented by Cleveland Chiropractic College; however, this information can be found in many other sources.

As you can see, the amount of actual hours to receive the degrees are very similar. It isn’t a matter of not having enough education, or the “right” education. It is more about the focus of the education.

Chiropractors and medical doctors play distinct roles in the healthcare system, each with its own set of expertise and approaches. However, a common misconception persists that chiropractors lack the extensive education and training that medical doctors undergo. In this blog post, we aim to dispel this myth and shed light on the rigorous education and training that chiropractors receive, highlighting the similarities and differences between their educational paths and those of medical doctors.

Chiropractors, like medical doctors, undergo a comprehensive and demanding educational journey. To become a licensed chiropractor, individuals must typically complete a bachelor’s degree followed by a four-year Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program. The D.C. program includes a curriculum that covers anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, radiology, and other relevant subjects.

During their education, chiropractic students also gain practical experience through internships and clinical rotations. These hands-on experiences help them develop diagnostic and treatment skills, providing a solid foundation for their future practice.

Comparing Chiropractic and Medical Education

While medical doctors follow a different educational path, the similarities between chiropractic and medical education are striking. Medical doctors typically complete a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of medical school. Medical education includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and clinical rotations, similar to the curriculum in chiropractic programs.

Both chiropractors and medical doctors undergo rigorous training to understand the human body, diagnose health conditions, and develop appropriate treatment plans. The emphasis on evidence-based practices is also common to both professions, ensuring that practitioners base their decisions on scientific research.

Post-Graduate Training and Specialization

After completing their foundational education, both chiropractors and medical doctors may choose to pursue post-graduate training and specialization in specific areas of interest. Medical doctors often enter residency programs, where they gain specialized knowledge and experience in a particular field, such as surgery, internal medicine, or pediatrics.

Similarly, chiropractors can pursue postgraduate education and certification in areas like sports chiropractic, neurology, radiology, or pediatrics. These additional qualifications allow chiropractors to expand their expertise and offer specialized care to patients.

Collaboration in Patient Care

It’s important to recognize that chiropractors and medical doctors can complement each other in providing comprehensive healthcare. Collaboration between the two professions has become increasingly common, as they work together to address patients’ needs and promote overall well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the idea that chiropractors have less education and training than medical doctors is a misconception that needs to be addressed. Both professions undergo rigorous educational paths, and each brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. Recognizing the similarities and differences between chiropractors and medical doctors can foster greater collaboration and understanding within the healthcare community, ultimately benefiting the patients they serve.

Dr. Scott Briggs is the owner of Briggs Family Chiropractic in Marion , IN and Converse, IN. He has been a chiropractor for over 20 years. You can read more about us on our website.