chiropractor

The work

Chiropractic is a hands-on therapy used to adjust misalignments of bones – concentrating particularly on the spine. The treatment does not use drugs or surgery; it uses specific adjustments to improve the efficiency of the nervous system.

In the first session with a client, a chiropractor will:

• discuss with the client their symptoms and health problems in depth
• examine the client, possibly using x-ray and blood sample results 
• take into account any previous diagnoses made by a conventional medical practitioners
• check that the clients condition is suitable for treatment by a chiropractic (some conditions are not)
• design a specific treatment programme appropriate to the individual needs of the patient.

Chiropractors may also supplement their treatment by advising patients about lifestyle, diet and exercise.

If they find an underlying condition that needs other treatment, they refer the patient to a GP or specialist.

Hours and Environment

There are no set working hours. Chiropractors may need to work unsocial hours, to fit in with their clients. As they are usually self-employed, part-time and flexible hours are possible.

Chiropractors usually work in a private clinic. Some may treat patients in their own homes, so being able to drive is useful.

The majority of the time is spent standing and bending.

Skills and Interests

As a chiropractor you will need:

• a genuine desire to help people
• the ability to develop empathy with clients
• good listening skills, able to understand a client's needs
• to be logical, have good problem solving skills, and strong powers of observation
• good co-ordination and manual dexterity
• an interest in anatomy and physiology
• to know when to refer clients to a qualified medical doctor
• commercial skills to help you run a business.

Entry

All practising chiropractors are legally required to register with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). To satisfy the requirements of the register you must complete a degree, or postgraduate certificate, in Chiropractic accredited by the GCC. Contact the GCC for details of approved courses (see Further Information).

To gain entry onto an approved degree course you are likely to need at least five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including science based subjects, and two or three A levels/H gades or equivalent, preferably including biology, human biology, physics or chemistry.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Experience of working in a healthcare environment can be an advantage.

Mature entrants are welcomed. Experience and the ability to relate well to other people are taken into consideration when you apply for a course.

Training

There are currently a limited number of courses that meet the requirements for registration as a chiropractor. These courses combine academic study with practical learning.

Subjects studied include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biomechanics, behavioural science, nutrition and infectious diseases. Students will also have supervised clinical training and patient contact.

When you have graduated, you undertake a further year of supervised practice. Newly qualified chiropractors usually work as an associate for an existing practice, although it is possible to receive this supervision whilst self-employed.

It is mandatory for all practitioners to undertake continuing professional development (CPD), which involves completing at least 30 hours of learning a year.

It is also possible for chiropractors to train in a specialist field such as sports injuries or pregnancy.

Opportunities

This area of work is expanding rapidly. There are more than 2,000 chiropractors currently working in the UK, almost all are in private practice. However, it is possible to provide services through the NHS.

Many chiropractors are self-employed and often need to build up their professional reputation and client list. They may work alone, in a clinic with other chiropractors, or alongside other complementary therapists such as osteopaths and acupuncturists.

Some chiropractors work for more than one clinic and may do some locum work.

It is possible to work abroad as the recognised qualifications meet international standards.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Most chiropractors are self-employed and usually charge an hourly or sessional rate, between £25 and £50 an hour.

A newly qualified chiropractor can earn from £15,000 to £20,000 a year, depending on the number of clients and location of practice.
When a practice is well established, they may earn around £30,000 to £50,000 a year.

Further information

PO Box 194
London
SE16 7QZ
Tel: 020 7237 5165

44 Wicklow St London WC1X 9HL Tel: 020 7713 5155

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