
Learn about the evolution of chiropractic care, evidence-based chiropractic techniques, and typical chiropractor training.
Chiropractic science dates back to the late 19th century, with the most notable early practitioners being Daniel David “D.D.” Palmer and his son, Bartlett Joshua “B.J.” Palmer. Like all health care fields, chiropractic science has evolved with new scientific discoveries and developments over the years.
University of Western States’ origins date back to the beginnings of chiropractic science in 1904, making it the second oldest chiropractic college in the world. Here, chiropractic students learn modern chiropractic theories and techniques in addition to learning how to treat the whole patient rather than merely treating their symptoms.
The Evolution of Chiropractic Science
During the emergence of chiropractic science, medical care was still at the point of bloodletting and leeches. D.D. Palmer researched alternative methods of medical care. He was the first to theorize that the nervous and human organ systems were connected and developed the method of spinal adjustments. This was the start of chiropractic science.
Today, evidence-based chiropractic techniques are used. As of 2012, 62% of U.S. adults have used complementary and alternative medicine therapies, with chiropractic care being the most prominent. While the focus for modern chiropractic care has been maintained integrative in its approach, the techniques used are grounded in evidence.
Efficacy of Chiropractic Science
Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be effective for managing back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Joint adjustments made during treatment aim to fix misalignments. When combined with standard medical care, chiropractic care reduces lower back pain more than standard medical care alone. Studies have even shown a reduced need for back surgery in patients whose first care provider was a chiropractor rather than a surgeon. Chiropractic treatments also improve chronic headaches and neck pain using spinal manipulation therapy and massage therapy.
Chiropractic Education
To become a chiropractor today, one must obtain specialized education and licensing. First, an undergraduate degree is required in a related field such as biology. Next, the candidate must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. At UWS, the doctoral program takes three to four years to complete. After graduation, a candidate must obtain licensure to practice in their state. Licensure requirements vary by state, so be sure to check your state’s requirements.
UWS’ Approach to Chiropractic Education
UWS uses an innovative, patient-centered approach to teach chiropractic students how to incorporate concepts, skills, and clinical and chiropractic sciences to complete whole-person care rather than just treating a patient’s symptoms. Chiropractic students at UWS learn how to apply clinical sciences to perform patient assessments and formulate diagnoses.
Chiropractic education at UWS provides students with knowledge of spinal biomechanics, landmark palpations, spinal and pelvic anatomy, soft tissue techniques, chiropractic theories and evidence-based practices. The doctorate program requires students to complete an internship with clinical hands-on training with a preceptor. During this portion of the program, students apply their studies to real-life scenarios in which they review and refine their spinal assessment skills as well as soft tissue interpretation.
Using all their theoretical and clinical knowledge, UWS graduates are equipped to provide whole-person care, focusing on more than just symptom management. Their goal is to provide high-quality health care with proven results.
Pursue a Career in Modern Chiropractic Care
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a chiropractor, start your journey today at the University of Western States. UWS is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), and its Doctor of Chiropractic program is accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). As the second oldest chiropractic school in the world, UWS commits to preparing graduates to provide chiropractic care in a conservative, whole person, and integrated health care approach. Apply today.