Chiropractic: A Good Career That Continues to Survive Tough Times

Thinking of becoming a chiropractor? Then this article is for you.

Chiropractic is a health care discipline that contends that health is directly related to spinal function. The spine is a flexible, hollow structure that houses the spinal cord, a key component of the central nervous system. Since the nervous system controls the function of muscles, organs, glands and tissues, any physical obstruction to it can have an adverse effect on health. Spinal deviations coming from trauma, poor posture, repetitive motions, and gradual spinal wear and tear can place pressure on nerves within the spine, causing pain and sub-optimal health.

Chiropractors are trained to locate areas of spinal misalignment and correct them using manual methods, and sometimes small instruments. They are also trained to use common therapeutic modalities like traction and electric muscle stim; take skeletal x-rays, and have knowledge of exercise rehabilitation. Many also specialize in nutrition to complement chiropractic care. Chiropractors must complete a four-year degree at an accredited chiropractic school and pass a state board exam in order to obtain a license to practice. Continuing education is required every year in order to keep the license current.

The business of chiropractic has dramatically changed in recent years. Those who contemplate embarking on a career in chiropractic should do their due diligence, research the field and gain an understanding of what is required and what to expect from being a chiropractor.

The chiropractic profession has a long history of controversy; some of it due to economic and political motivations. There have been debates on what disorders chiropractors can claim they can treat or cure, whether or not chiropractors are primary care physicians, what procedures chiropractors can bill, and whether or not chiropractic is safe. There have also been fights over inclusion in health insurance coverage and reimbursement. Despite these rocky challenges, leaders of the chiropractic profession have been successful in getting regulators to acknowledge the efficacy of chiropractic and the public's need for chiropractic coverage.

In view of these struggles, starting a chiropractic business can be a daunting challenge. Most chiropractors are basically entrepreneur business owners, and just like any other business owner must have strong business skills in order to survive. Chiropractors, unlike medical doctors don't enjoy the benefit of having hospital privileges, or serving as primary care physicians for a particular health plan. They basically are outside the primary health care delivery system and must acquire patients on their own abilities and finances.

Despite this, chiropractic can still be a very rewarding career. The public needs to have an alternative to drugs, surgery and bed rest for treating sickness and injuries; chiropractors are well suited to fill this need. They can also serve as a natural health and wellness advocate for their patients and significantly contribute to the health of their communities.

A new guide on how to start a chiropractic business has just been released. Written for those aspiring to be chiropractors, as well as chiropractors wishing to operate more leaner, it contains key strategies on how to run a profitable chiropractic clinic and have fun at the same time.

For more information, visit http://www.chiropracticbusinessplan.com