In our review of different careers we take a look at how to become a qualified chiropractor, who is able to practice their trade on members of the general public, in clinics, hospitals or physiotherapy centres,
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
A chiropractor relives pain and diagnoses and treats injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system.
As a chiropractor you would manipulate your client's joints, bones and soft tissue in order to alleviate pain without the use of medication and to prevent injuries from happening again.
You will need to meet with clients and discuss their condition. It is then your responsibility to decide what the issue is and how it would be best treated. You will design and carry out a treatment programme for each individual and monitor their progress as the treatment goes on.
Is Becoming a chiropractor Right For Me?
The following skills are important for any chiropractor:
- An interest in biology
- Good with people; you will need to make your clients feel comfortable around you.
- Manual dexterity; you need to be good with your hands, you will need physical co-ordination.
- The ability to deal with very physical work.
- A good knowledge of when to send a client to a doctor.
How Much Can a Chiropractor Earn?
An average starting salary for a newly qualified chiropractor is around £20,000 and with experience this can rise to anywhere between £30,000 and £50,000 per year. If you run your own successful practice it is realistic to expect between £60,000 and £80,000 a year.
If you work as a self employed chiropractor you can charge anywhere between £40 and £80 an hour.
What Qualifications Do I Need To Become a Chiropractor?
To practice as a chiropractor it is a requirement that you have a degree and are a registered member of the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and you study for a GCC accredited degree.
