Chiropractors are often referred to as doctors by their patients, but are they really doctors? This is a question that many people ask, and the answer is not as simple as a yes or no. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what a chiropractor is, what kind of education they receive, who is given the title ‘Dr’, why chiropractors are allowed to be called doctors in Australia, and why chiropractic care is safe.
What is a Chiropractor?
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, including specific spinal adjustments and manual therapies, to help relieve pain and improve function in their patients. Chiropractors are also trained to recognize conditions that may require concurrent or referred care to other healthcare providers, ensuring that their patients receive the most comprehensive care possible.
What Kind of Education Does a Chiropractor Receive?
To become a chiropractor, one must complete a rigorous education program that includes extensive training in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, as well as clinical experience via extensive clinical placement. In Australia, chiropractors must complete a minimum of five years of university study, including but not limited to a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and a Master of Clinical Chiropractic. There are Chiropractic programs offered in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.
Chiropractic Education is Extensive
Chiropractic education is extensive and includes a thorough understanding of the human body, including the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and other systems that can be affected by spinal misalignment. Chiropractors are trained to use a variety of techniques, including spinal adjustments, manual therapies, and exercise rehabilitation, to help their patients achieve optimal health and wellness.
Who is Given the Title ‘Dr’?
The title ‘Dr’ is generally given to individuals who have earned a doctoral degree, which is the highest level of academic degree. In Australia, health care providers who have completed 5 or more years study are legally allowed to use the title ‘Dr’. Chiropractors will complete at least 5 years of study before graduating, so they are legally and ethically allowed to adopt this title.
Why Are Chiropractors Allowed to be Called Doctors in Australia?
In Australia, chiropractors who have completed a 5 year degree in chiropractic are legally allowed to use the title ‘Dr’. This is because chiropractic is recognized as a regulated health profession in Australia, and chiropractors are considered to be primary healthcare providers. As such, they are held to the same standards as other healthcare professionals via professional organisations and governing bodies, and their qualifications are recognized by the government.
Chiropractic Care may be a Safe and Effective Option
Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care. For example, a 2020 systematic review published in the Journal Chiropractic & Manual Therapies found that adverse events associated with chiropractic care were rare, with the majority being mild and self-limiting. Additionally, the review found that chiropractic care was effective in treating a variety of conditions, including low back pain, neck pain, and headache. This study, along with others, supports the safety and efficacy of chiropractic care as a non-invasive treatment option for musculoskeletal conditions. You can view the paper here.
So, are Chiropractors Doctors?
The answer is yes. In Australia, chiropractors who have completed a 5 year course of study in chiropractic are legally allowed to use the title ‘Dr’. Chiropractors undergo extensive education and training to become primary healthcare providers and are held to the same standards as other healthcare professionals. Chiropractic care is generally considered to be safe and effective for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. If you’re considering chiropractic care, the best question to ask is “Does this therapist have the training, skills and expertise to treat my particular condition?”.
At The Urban Alchemist, we offer chiropractic care as part of our holistic approach to healthcare. Our chiropractors are highly trained and experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, and they work closely with our other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Contact us today to learn more about our chiropractic services and how we can help you achieve optimal health and wellness.