Is becoming a chiropractic rehabilitation specialist right for me?
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How to become a Chiropractic Rehabilitation Specialist
Bachelor’s Degree
There is not a specific degree that is required for pre-chiropractic medicine undergraduate study. According to the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, aspiring chiropractic rehabilitation specialists are most likely to earn a bachelor’s in one for these disciplines:
Common prerequisite classes include human anatomy, physiology, embryology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, cellular biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition, nuclear medicine, biomechanics, and statistics.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) Degree
Prospective chiropractic rehabilitation specialists must complete a four-year chiropractic program at a chiropractic college accredited by the Councils on Chiropractic Education International (CCEI). The curriculum combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experience, with emphasis on anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, diagnosis, and chiropractic techniques.
Licensure
Chiropractic graduates must obtain licensure in the state where they plan to practise. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include passing the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam and meeting state-specific requirements.
Clinical Experience
Practical experience gained through internships or clinical rotations that focus on rehabilitation, sports medicine, or multidisciplinary care is vital to apply learned knowledge and skills in real-world settings, treating patients under the supervision of experienced chiropractors.
Professional Organizations and Certifications
As the field of chiropractic is constantly evolving, it is important to stay up to date with the latest technologies, developments, and best practices. Several chiropractic and related organizations provide advocacy efforts, access to professional events, continuing education opportunities, and research and resources, as well as a network of like-minded professionals working in the field.
Many chiropractic rehabilitation specialists hold certifications offered by these organizations, which demonstrate expertise in the field as well as a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. While they are voluntary, some employers may require certification as a condition of employment.
- Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Rehabilitation Board (DACRB) – This certification is offered by the American Chiropractic Rehabilitation Board (ACRB). It signifies a high level of specialization and expertise in chiropractic rehabilitation. The DACRB program consists of online reading material and exams, rehabilitation seminar attendance, completion of the oral practical examination, and submission of a case study.
- Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) – This certification is offered by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP) and requires additional coursework and clinical experience in sports medicine, injury assessment, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement.
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – While not specifically for chiropractors, this certification offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) can be helpful for sports chiropractors who work with athletes in strength and conditioning programs.
- International Chiropractic Sports Science Diploma (ICSSD) – This certification is offered by the International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (Fédération Internationale de Chiropratique du Sport – FISC) and requires additional coursework and clinical experience in sports medicine, sports chiropractic, and other related fields.
Also supporting the chiropractic rehabilitation community are these organizations:
- American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and in particular its specialized councils focused on rehabilitation, orthopedics, and sports chiropractic
- International Chiropractors Association (ICA)