Without warning, something in your neck or back goes out of whack, and
you're in mind-numbing pain. A chiropractor can diagnose the problem and treat
it by adjusting or manipulating the spine. In many cases, this treatment allows
you to return to your routine, pain-free.
Chiropractors, also known as chiropractic doctors, diagnose and treat patients
whose health problems are associated with the body's muscular, nervous and
skeletal systems -- especially the spine. Chiropractors believe that interference
with these systems impairs normal functions and lowers resistance to disease.
They believe that spinal or vertebral dysfunctions alter many important bodily
functions by affecting the nervous system.
Back pain is a very common affliction. A Louis Harris poll found that 34
percent of those surveyed had a back problem that required professional care
in the past five years.
Chiropractors assist the natural healing process by helping maintain, restore
or enhance your health. Chiropractic's natural, drug-free approach makes sense
to health-conscious people who want to play an active role in their own health,
according to Doug Pooley, president of a chiropractic association.
Chiropractors typically work around 42 hours per week, although longer
hours are not uncommon, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Practitioners work in clean, comfortable offices and set their hours to accommodate
patients.
There are no real safety hazards in this career, but chiropractors who
take X-rays to diagnose patients do take precautions against repeated exposure
to radiation.
Sharp observation skills are needed by chiropractors to detect physical
irregularities. Considerable hand dexterity, rather than strength, is needed
for adjustments and manipulations of the spine. Those in practice should be
able to work independently and be responsible.
"Think about how you feel being in business for yourself," advises Emily
Davidson, a practitioner in New York City. "This is a part of the work that
really isn't addressed in school. You can be an extraordinary clinician and
still not be a good small businessperson."