Are Chiropractors Doctors?
“When people come to see me for the first time, they are often skeptical,” said Dr. Joseph Graffeo. “I spend a lot of time explaining what I do and my training as a physician.”
The question “Are chiropractors really doctors?” is a little strange, if you consider that most people do not ask “Are dentists really doctors?” Even though dentists do not complete the same medical degree as a physician, we trust that dentists know what they are doing when it comes to our teeth. However with chiropractic there is general skepticism. And, if you know the history of chiropractic, you’d understand why.
In the mid-20th century the American Medical Association (AMA) labeled chiropractic a form of “quackery” and organized a national boycott using an ethics ban on interprofessional cooperation to prevent medical physicians from working with chiropractors. In 1987, the landmark case Wilk v. AMA ended this boycott. The court found that the AMA was “guilty of having conspired to destroy the profession of chiropractic in the United States.” Today, physicians routinely refer patients to chiropractors, and insurance companies cover chiropractic treatment. Nevertheless, a stigma against chiropractic lingers.
“In some ways, chiropractors’ training in anatomy and physiology is more extensive than an MD’s training,” said Dr. Graffeo. “Like an orthopedic specialist, we read X-rays and focus on soft tissue injuries, and everything related to the spine. The conditions we treat run the gamut from nerve pain to headaches and concussions.”
Doctor of Chiropractic: What Does That Mean?
When you see the letters DC after a chiropractor’s name, that means he or she is a Doctor of Chiropractic. Just as a Dentist is a DDS, Doctor of Dentistry, a chiropractor is also a doctor.
In order to practice in Oregon, chiropractors must pass the National Board Examinations and the Oregon State Board Examinations. Continued education is required annually to maintain an active license to practice.
These rigorous requirements ensure a high standard across the industry. Whether you’re seeing a chiropractor in Portland or Baker City, the chiropractor must complete these educational and exam requirements.
A Doctor of Chiropractic must complete medical training and pass national and state exams. In the state of Oregon, chiropractic physicians must graduate from an accredited college. It takes four to five years to complete a chiropractic medicine degree, which includes:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
- Nutrition
- Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Differential diagnosis
- Radiology
- Spinal analysis
- Chiropractic manipulation
- Physiotherapy
What to Expect at a Chiropractic Appointment
Graffeo Accident & Injury Clinic provides a complimentary consultation to new patients. One of our chiropractors will listen to your specific injuries, answer questions and concerns, and discuss your health goals. When it comes to your recommended treatment plan, you’re in the driver’s seat.
Chiropractic treatment generally includes a spinal adjustment. Learn more about the science behind spinal adjustment by watching the video below or visiting our chiropractic adjustments page.
Do you have more questions about chiropractic? Our staff and chiropractors are happy to answer any questions you have before you decide on treatment. Contact us for more information to schedule an appointment.
The post Are Chiropractors Doctors? appeared first on Graffeo Accident & Injury Clinic.
