Q: Are Chiropractors Real Doctors?
Updated: May 17, 2018
Answer: Yes. Chiropractic Physicians are trained in diagnosis and management of primary care conditions, our training is very similar to that of medical doctors.
However, chiropractors do not treat clinical conditions with drugs or surgery, and refer to medical specialists when appropriate.
Like medical doctors, Doctors of Chiropractic receive training that is standardized across the profession and must pass National Board Exams in order to provide patient care.
However, there is much variance in scope of practice in the chiropractic medicine, as the scope of practic is regulated at the state level. For examples, chiropractors in Florida, Illinois, and New Mexico have nearly a full scope of practice in primary care which means they are able to treat most primary care conditions holistically. In other states, the scope of practice may or may not be more limited. Many chiropractors choose to limit their practices to care of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system.