The Growing Demand in the Sports Medicine Field

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The sports medicine market is growing, but why? Learn more about what’s driving the surge in demand for sports medicine professionals.

The Master of Science in Sports Medicine at the University of Western States offers online coursework coupled with hands-on laboratory exercises and practical, field-based experiences to prepare students for a professional career in sports medicine.

Why Is Sports Medicine Important?

Sports medicine jobs may include athletic trainer, strength and conditioning coach, and exercise physiology at the adolescent, high school, collegiate, or professional levels. Sports medicine can be applied to those who participate in sports as well as anyone who lives an active lifestyle.

Sports medicine professionals help active people with injury prevention, management, and rehabilitation. Professionals learn to provide quality patient care through physical and mental health techniques, whether it is soft tissue treatment or mental health communication strategies. These methods help athletes recover and maintain health to optimize their athletic performance.

Professionals in sports medicine are important because they implement injury prevention programs and assist in muscle recovery and injury rehabilitation for athletes. The M.S.  in Sports Medicine program at UWS includes Rehabilitation and Sports Performance as one of its required program courses. This online class focuses on patients’ rehabilitation and care management to enhance performance while including a brief overview of muscle functions during movement, movement patterns, and functional exams.

The use of the clinical audit process and application of learned knowledge allows our graduates to gain hands-on experience, confidence in the professional field, and practice care protocols in preparation for their role in the sports medicine field.

In conjunction with the Psychology of Athletic Injury and Rehabilitation, a required degree course, graduates will learn theoretical and psychosocial topics that address an individual’s response to injury and rehabilitation. Our sports medicine students will be able to implement appropriate performance psychology techniques to improve adherence and compliance of the athlete or performer during the struggle of recovering from injury and transitioning to return to play.

Growth in the Sports Medicine Market

The growing caution for sports injury prevention and management for all ages and at all levels of play leads to an increased demand for sports medicine professionals. The demand for sports medicine physicians increased by 2.6% on average between 2017 and 2022. As of 2022, the sports medicine market employed 133,635 people and is expected to fill 72,500 new jobs by 2029. This estimate is based on the growing awareness of sports injuries, the increase in research, and the corresponding need for injury prevention and rehabilitation programs in the growing athletic world.

  • An average of 30 million children play sports in the United States, and an average of  3.5 million injuries occur each year at adolescence.
  • The number of student-athletes competing at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) level has increased by over 3,000 athletes in the 2017-2018 academic year compared to the year before.
  • There are 62 new teams for men and 64 new teams for women at the college level.

Sports injuries, such as concussions for example, used to go undetected due to variable presenting symptoms, lack of education around this brain injury, and the late effects of brain trauma a concussion can have. With the rise in athletic participation, there is a correlating rise in injuries, including concussions. Now, there are updated recommendations for athletic trainers for concussion management through education, assessments, and return to academics and play.

Given the importance of concussion awareness and the rise in frequency of concussions, sports medicine professionals, including athletic trainers, can benefit from UWS’s Evidence-Based Concussion Management and Care elective. This online class provides students with up-to-date evidence about sports-related concussions, analyzing various organizations’ position statements, concussion laws, and standards of care for athletes to be able to return to a place, academics, and optimal health. Should our students choose to pursue a career in sports where concussions are prevalent, the program can be customized with elective courses to provide the best preparation for their desired career.

Impact of Sports Medicine Research

Sports medicine professionals can treat any individual who is injured while being active, in sports, or in independent exercise. Therefore, the demand for sports medicine physicians has been increasing with the push of a healthy lifestyle. However, to be able to keep up with the growing number of active people and competitive athletes, research is constantly conducted and studied, providing insight on common injuries in specific sports such as the cause, potential preventative measures, and how to manage care and rehabilitation.

Following the concussion example from above, research on sports-related concussions has dramatically increased in recent years with growing awareness and precautions taken in sports like soccer and football. In addition to the concussion management course UWS offers, the elective course, Research Applications, teaches students how to utilize current research to form evidence-based conclusions in patient care. UWS graduates focus on research applications to gain a deeper understanding of the research process, preparing future sports medicine professionals for independent research to exceed professional competency in the field. Studies are constantly being published, influencing injury rehabilitation methods. Sports organization regulations and medical treatments are everchanging, adapting to the sports injury data. This is why sports medicine professionals stay updated on published research and adjust their treatment plans if necessary.

There are several hot topics in sports medicine research. The common injuries found in athletes from various athletics are constantly being studied:

Looking to Join the Sports Medicine Field?

The M.S. in Sports Medicine at UWS is a degree for individuals who already hold a a professional degree (e.g., MD, DO, DC.) and license in health care. A variety of career options are available for those with a master’s degree in sports medicine with other higher education and certifications. The growing demand for sports medicine professionals is expected to continue, opening the market to a significant amount of job openings in the future. This sports medicine market growth appears to be a steady incline for the next several years, offering career opportunities in research and clinical work. Learn more about the sports medicine degree options available at the University of Western States to get started on your career path.

UWS’ Approach to Evidence-Based Chiropractic Care

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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. We blend hands-on clinical experiences from chiropractic internships, preceptorships, and working at our on-campus clinic, with practical knowledge and research. We have a strong reputation with our community in Portland, Oregon, helping our Doctor of Chiropractic students network and gain real-world experience in preparation for their licensure exams.

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.

Once students are taken and pass their state’s required licensure exams and become practicing Chiropractors, they will need to meet the continuing education requirements. UWS offers online CE courses for first-year, second-year, and active chiropractors practicing in the state of Oregon.

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.

The Path to Becoming a Sports Chiropractor

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Discover what sports chiropractors do, and how they differ from regular chiropractors. Learn what education is needed, the average salary, and job outlook.

Chiropractors specialize in addressing health issues concerning the musculoskeletal system, including conditions affecting bones, muscles, and joints. Sports chiropractors undergo specific training to diagnose, treat, and prevent sports-related injuries, while also aiding athletes in their rehabilitation process.

The Doctor of Chiropractic program at University of Western States prepares graduates with a systems-based, whole-person approach to health and a dedication to care that is “for the good of the patient.” Students in the program are offered an option that combines it with the M.S. in Sports Medicine program, creating a unique path toward a rewarding career as a sports chiropractor.

What Is a Sports Chiropractor?

A sports chiropractor aids athletes in maximizing performance, preventing injuries, and expediting recovery from injuries. Chiropractic care offers a medication-free approach to enhance overall health, promoting efficient bodily function and healing. Approximately 90% of professional and Olympic athletes reportedly integrate chiropractic care into their training and recovery routines.

What Type of Education Is Required for a Sports Chiropractor?

A sports medicine chiropractor career typically requires completing a minimum of three years of undergraduate education. It’s advisable to pursue degrees like human biology, exercise science, or kinesiology, which have a strong focus on biological sciences.

Register for a Doctor of Chiropractic degree program, which typically takes 3 to 5 years to finish the 4,200 instructional hours. The chiropractic program should be nationally accredited, spanning over four years, and include hands-on training through laboratory sessions and clinical internships.

For post-graduate education to achieve the sports level of chiropractic care and specialization, you need to acquire further education and pass the required examinations.

This may vary by employment industry and region:

Students in the University of Western States chiropractic program must complete the standardized clinical skills assessment (CSA) which evaluates students’ attainment of clinical competencies.

  • First eligibility to sit for NBCE Part I occurs in correlation with completing Q5.
  • First eligibility to sit for NBCE Part II occurs in correlation with completing Q9.
  • First eligibility to sit for NBCE Part III occurs in correlation with completing Q9. Also requires successful completion of NBCE Part I.
  • First eligibility to sit for NBCE Part IV occurs in correlation with completing Q10 and requires successful completion of NBCE Part I.

How to Pursue Sports Chiropractic Care With UWS

The M.S. in Sports Medicine at UWS is an excellent companion to the Doctor of Chiropractic program to provide specialized learning in sports-related areas and practical training. It better equips chiropractors with the knowledge to assist athletes’ unique health needs.

The Doctor of Chiropractic degree program at University of Western States is awarded programmatic accreditation by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). UWS provides a route to combine the M.S. in Sports Medicine with the Doctor of Chiropractic program with strong values in integrative health to better prepare students for career opportunities in sports injury chiropractic care.

UWS 2025 Faculty Members of the Year

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A banner image bearing University of Western States branding and brand colors reads, "UWS Faculty of the Year."

Join us in congratulating the recipients of the 2025 UWS Faculty Member of the Year award: Christine Major, DC, from the UWS college of chiropractic and Ron Watson, DC, from the UWS college of graduate studies.

Christine Major, DC

 “Dr. Christine Major is a dynamic educator who is student centered and always ready to represent the university through participation in committees, events, research and so much more,” says UWS Provost Dana Sims, Ph.D. “On behalf of the university, I congratulate Dr. Major on this peer recognition of her expertise and constant quest for excellence.”

“I am honored and humbled to receive the Faculty Member of the Year Award,” Dr. Major says. “This recognition is a reflection not just of my work, but of the support I’ve received from colleagues, students, and the entire UWS community. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in teaching. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth of our students and to be part of such a collaborative and inspiring environment.”

Ronald Watson, DC

“Dr. Ron Watson exemplifies student focused through his work with students,” says Dr. Sims. “His students turn to him for robust and meaningful answers to difficult questions. On behalf of the university, I congratulate Dr. Watson on this peer recognition of his outstanding student focused approach.”

Says Dr. Watson, “I’m honored to receive this year’s Faculty of the Year award. It’s deeply meaningful to me and serves as a reminder of how fortunate I am to be part of such a supportive environment at UWS. I owe a great deal of thanks to the Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine program directors, Drs. Browne and Redwood, whose leadership and encouragement have been instrumental throughout my time here.  I also want to express my gratitude to the students, who continually inspire me with their dedication, curiosity, and willingness to engage.”

The Faculty Member of the Year award was developed to recognize faculty member contributions and successes based on nominations from each UWS college. Dr. Major and Dr. Watson were nominated by their peers for their demonstration of the UWS core value of student-focus.

Why Canadian Students Are Choosing US Chiropractic Schools for Advanced Training

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The Doctor of Chiropractic program at UWS prepares Canadian students to meet the growing demand for chiropractic care back home.

Chiropractic care has seen a surge in popularity as more patients turn to preventative treatments. The global demand for chiropractic physicians continues to grow, with the field now valued at $20.6 billion. Meanwhile, Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) programs in the U.S. have gained international attention, particularly from Canadian students.

In this article, we will examine the rising demand for chiropractic care and how it is attracting Canadian students to pursue chiropractic studies in the U.S.

The Preventative Power of Chiropractic Care

There is a common misconception that chiropractic care is limited to spinal adjustments, but it’s so much more than that.

Chiropractic care is a whole person approach to health that emphasizes the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders related to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems—particularly those affecting the spine. Chiropractic physicians focus on spinal alignment and use various techniques to enhance overall well-being.

Chiropractic care plays a critical role as a primary preventative measure for spinal pain and musculoskeletal disorders. By addressing misalignments and musculoskeletal dysfunctions early, patients can often avoid more aggressive treatments such as opioid medications or invasive surgeries. Studies show that patients receiving chiropractic care are 60% less likely to require hospital treatment for spinal conditions, highlighting the preventative benefits of this approach.

Additionally, chiropractic care tends to be more affordable than other medical interventions. The effectiveness of chiropractic care in reducing the need for more expensive treatments—such as prescription medications, deep-tissue massage, or physical therapy—subsequently lowers the overall health care costs for patients. Chiropractic care is not only a safer alternative but also a cost-effective way to manage and prevent pain, making it an accessible option for many seeking long-term relief from musculoskeletal issues.

A Comparison of US and Canadian Chiropractic Care

The chiropractic profession has deep roots in both the United States and Canada. Its origins trace back to Daniel David Palmer, who was born in Ontario, Canada, and later moved to Iowa, where he founded the practice of chiropractic in 1895. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for the profession, which has since flourished on both sides of the border.

Despite these common roots, there are significant differences in how chiropractic care is delivered, regulated, and integrated into the health care systems of the U.S. and Canada. The differences in accessibility, education, and integration have created unique challenges and opportunities for the chiropractic field in both countries.

Why US Patients Have Greater Access to Care

In the U.S., chiropractic care is widely embraced, with more than 35 million Americans seeking treatment annually. This high level of demand reflects the broad acceptance of chiropractic services as a mainstream option for addressing musculoskeletal issues, pain management, and overall wellness.

The strong utilization of chiropractic services is supported by a substantial workforce of approximately 70,000 licensed DCs across the country. This large pool of practitioners ensures that chiropractic care is readily available in most regions, allowing patients to easily access services.

In contrast, while chiropractic care is valued in Canada, there are only an estimated 9,000 licensed DCs. The smaller number of practitioners limits access to chiropractic services, particularly in rural areas.

UWS helps bridge the gap in Canada’s demand for DCs by equipping students with evidence-based training. Some Canadian licensed alumni then return to Canada to bring advanced skills and a whole person approach to health care, enhancing care in their communities.

How Chiropractic Training Differs

Including the University of Western States, the U.S. has 18 Doctor of Chiropractic degree programs (DCP) that are accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education. UWS is the second oldest chiropractic school in the world, opening its doors in 1904, just a few years after the practice’s founding.

Though tuition for DC programs is lower in Canada, the options are very slim; currently, there are only two DCPs.

Additionally, specialized course offerings are more advanced in the U.S., giving students an edge in their careers. Here at UWS, several specialized master’s programs can be added concurrently with the DCP. Check out the following programs to further enhance skills in your chiropractic career:

To ease the tuition curve, UWS offers a DC scholarship for Canadian students that is automatically applied when students maintain a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA. Learn more about UWS resources for Canadian students.

Professional Autonomy in the US and Canada

While chiropractic care is well-respected in both countries, there are notable differences in the scope of practice and perception.

One primary nuance when it comes to chiropractic care: Chiropractic physicians in the U.S. are afforded a high level of autonomy and are often more integrated into the health care system. For example, U.S. chiropractic physicians can order advanced diagnostic tests—such as MRIs, CTs, and blood tests—and can refer patients to orthopedic surgeons when necessary. The ability to utilize a wider array of diagnostic tools enhances the role of chiropractic physicians and can improve patient outcomes.

In Canada, chiropractic physicians face more restrictions in terms of diagnostic capabilities. They are authorized to order radiographs (X-rays) but not MRIs or CT scans. This limitation has led some Canadian chiropractic physicians to refer patients to the U.S. for quicker access to diagnostic imaging. Anthony Lombardi, MD, shared with The American Chiropractor: “My practice is located 45 miles from the U.S. border, so I refer my patients to Buffalo to have the diagnostic imaging done so they do not have long wait times in Canada.”

The ability to order additional diagnostic tests for patients is an essential tool for chiropractic physicians to address whole person health—an initiative championed by UWS.

UWS Prepares Students to Serve All Communities

As an integrated health sciences university, UWS champions the motto “For the good of the patient” with a strong focus on whole person health. The university’s diverse student body of more than 1,000 includes individuals from various backgrounds, including a significant Canadian population.

As a provider of integrated health education, students learn to integrate different aspects of health care, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to patient well-being. UWS ensures students become trusted chiropractic leaders who are prepared to care for every patient’s unique needs and address the needs through integrating all fields of health care.

Many UWS alumni carry the UWS approach beyond Portland. “I hope to move to the west coast of Canada and participate in an associateship where I can further refine my skillset and gain experience with a diverse population,” says Jasmine Cheema, DC, graduate of UWS. “Eventually, I would like to have my own practice where I plan on working with elderly individuals and can cater treatment plans to their specific needs.”

The UWS Doctor of Chiropractic program is designed to meet the academic requirements for licensure the U.S. and Canada, providing graduates with a wide range of professional opportunities.

Explore the UWS Doctor of Chiropractic program and make an impact globally. 

CapU and The Community Solution Sign Memorandum to Enrich Chiropractic Learning Opportunities

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Capilano University (CapU) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Community Solution Education System that formalizes a pathway for CapU kinesiology students to enter the Doctor of Chiropractic program at University of Western States (UWS).

“I am thrilled with this new partnership, which signals that Capilano University’s Bachelor of Kinesiology prepares students to successfully enter health-related doctoral programs such as the chiropractic doctoral program at UWS,” said Caroline Dépatie, dean, Faculty of Global & Community Studies at Capilano University.

The MoU helps establish a pathway for undergraduates to further their studies in chiropractic health care.

Barbara Davis-Leigh, vice president, global engagement, The Community Solution Education System, Caroline Dépatie, dean, Global & Community Studies, Capilano University, Dana Sims, provost, University of Western States (UWS), and Martha Kaeser, dean, College of Chiropractic, UWS, sign a memorandum of understanding Dec. 16, 2024, that formalizes a pathway for CapU kinesiology students to enter the Doctor of Chiropractic program at UWS. (photo Capilano University)

“We are proud to collaborate with CapU to create new pathways for students to pursue careers in chiropractic health care,” said Nathan Long, president of UWS. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing whole-person health education and preparing the next generation of health-care professionals to make a meaningful impact in their communities. It’s also a clear example of the value our university receives as a proud member of The Community Solution, allowing us to expand opportunities for students and foster more collaboration across institutions.”

The agreement also outlines additional opportunities for collaboration, including supporting the exchange of materials, faculty and students, and professional development and research activities. Additionally, CapU kinesiology students enrolling in the chiropractic doctoral program at UWS are eligible to receive transfer credits for four courses (11.5 credits) and can complete some practicums in Canada.

“This partnership exemplifies The Community Solution’s commitment to building strong relationships that benefit both students and institutions,” said Michael Horowitz, chancellor of The Community Solution. “By collaborating with forward-thinking universities like CapU, we’re expanding access to high-quality education and advancing students’ professional goals. We look forward to creating similar partnerships throughout our System.”

Applications are now open for the four-year Bachelor of Kinesiology (BKin) program at CapU, which is expected to graduate 40 students this year. The degree focuses on developing students’ knowledge of how to assess, design and implement programs to facilitate health behaviour change, leading to improved lifestyles and prevention of chronic diseases. A two-year diploma program in kinesiology is offered exclusively at CapU’s new Squamish campus.

The UWS Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program is a rigorous, 12-quarter doctoral program that is designed to be completed in three years. Students learn from experienced faculty with practice experience and clinical training at the UWS campus in Portland, Ore. The UWS DC program qualifies graduates with the coursework required for licensure in the U.S. and Canada.

“Our vision: Inspired by Imagination is grounded in co-creating a distinct university experience,” Dépatie says. “A sincere thank you to the team at The Community Solution and to our School of Kinesiology for making this partnership happen for our students and graduates.”