Profession: chiropractor

Did you know? More than ever, Quebecers are looking for natural, effective and quality care options amid a wide range of so-called healthy solutions. According to a recent report, nearly 70% of Quebec adults will turn to alternative or non-traditional forms of medicine at least once in their lives. In light of this, chiropractic represents a solution of choice for Quebecers, and a profession of the future!

Chiropractors specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal (NMS) disorders, and the effects that these disorders have on a person’s overall health, in order to ensure the recovery and maintenance of optimal health.

In order to carry out their work, chiropractors conduct a complete clinical examination. They ask questions about a patient’s current health and medical history, perform a physical examination of a patient’s spinal column and joints, and take X-rays as needed. Following an analysis, they make a neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis and recommend a therapeutic approach, which may include:

• chiropractic adjustment — a specialized form of joint manipulations
• various complementary approaches, including muscle therapy
• physical therapy devices (e.g., electrotherapy, ultrasound, lasers, shockwaves)

Is chiropractor the right profession for you?

Chiropractors must enjoy being in close proximity to people, both physically and psychologically, since they are in contact with patients all day long. They must show a great deal of empathy toward people, who sometimes suffer from chronic pain.

Chiropractic is a discipline that is often practised alone or in very small teams. Chiropractors must therefore be autonomous and independent in their practice. In addition to having a strong sense of organization and being highly disciplined, chiropractors must have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and good management skills. Most chiropractors are self-employed and own private clinics.

Schedules and work environments

• Chiropractors organize their work schedules according to their practice site and the clientele they treat. They may choose to start their days at 8:00 a.m. or end at 8:00 or 9:00 p.m., depending on their patients’ needs.
• In general, chiropractors practise in private clinical settings and work with a diverse clientele. They may own their own clinic or work for another chiropractor.
• Chiropractors can also dedicate themselves to research or university teaching.

Areas of interest

• Chiropractors like science and are especially interested in alternative or non-traditional forms of medicine (no medication or surgical intervention).
• They place considerable importance on health and quality of life.
• They like working with people and feeling useful.
• They enjoy doing physical work (efforts and manipulations).
• They enjoy being autonomous and making decisions.

Skills

• Motivation and perseverance
• Self-confidence and strong decision-making skills
• Dynamic personality and good listening and communication skills
• Predisposition for the sciences
• Physical strength and endurance
• Precision and manual dexterity