Is becoming a geriatric chiropractor right for me?
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How to become a Geriatric Chiropractor
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 geriatric chiropractors 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 geriatric chiropractors 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.
Practical Experience
New chiropractic graduates who wish to specialize in geriatric chiropractic can gain experience working with older adults in a chiropractic clinic or a geriatric care setting. This can be done through internships, residencies, or working under the supervision of experienced geriatric chiropractors.
Further Education or Training
Geriatric chiropractors may choose to pursue additional education or training in areas such as gerontology, acupuncture, or massage therapy to enhance their skills and expertise in working with older adults.
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 geriatric chiropractors 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.
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – Offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), this certification is focused on developing knowledge and skills in exercise science and strength training. This may be particularly relevant for geriatric chiropractors who are interested in helping older adults maintain their mobility and independence through exercise.
- Certified Clinical Chiropractic Assistant (CCCA) – Offered by the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards, this certification is designed for individuals who assist with chiropractic therapies in a clinical setting. The program covers topics such as patient communication, geriatric care, and practice management.
Also supporting the geriatric chiropractic community are these organizations and councils:
- American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
- ACA Council on Chiropractic Orthopedics
- ACA Council on Neurology
- ACA Council on Chiropractic Acupuncture
- ACA Council on Nutrition
- American College of Chiropractic Orthopedists (ACCO)
- International Academy of Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (IANM)
- International Chiropractors Association (ICA)
- National Association of Chiropractic Attorneys (NACA)