Chiropractor Job Description

Ever felt the need to rub your back when you are stressed out, in spite of the fact that your back is not aching? Then you probably know the importance of chiropractic health care. Many people still seem to have a difficulty in figuring out what it is that chiropractors exactly do. So here I am writing about them and what they do.

Chiropractors spend most of their professional time counseling patients, diagnosing their problems,) and suggesting treatments. Ordinarily diagnostic activities include

• Procuring ample knowledge of the patient's health history and status: This is essential as each detail could make a difference to the case.
• Physically examining the patient, his posture, and spine. Taking notice of the movement range: This gives an account of the problem at hand and its gravity.

• Taking appropriate X-rays and interpreting.
• Testing for blood pressure, taking other required tests, and taking blood samples for further analysis, if required: Blood pressure and other blood issues can be a hindrance in the treatment of the ailment. It is best to be aware of the complete scenario before beginning the treatment.

As per the needs of the patient, he may need to use one out of a range of treatment techniques:

• Planning and discussing an appropriate and patient-specific treatment plan: Discussion with the patient regarding the treatment methodology makes the patient aware about his ailment and prepares him mentally for the treatment.

• Performing required joint adjustments for the spine and extremities (done using hands or specialized equipment): This is a part of the treatment, and needs to be done with complete precision and responsibility.

• Performing massage or any other soft tissue therapy: He needs to keep in mind that he is dealing with delicate body parts here. Any mistake can lead to complications.

• Counseling the patient on rehabilitation exercises, for facilitation of long-term recovery and techniques to maintain health: The right consultation is expected by every patient. A professional needs to not only guide the patient for the further activities but also be accessible and tolerant in case of doubts.

A few other responsibilities:

• Clinical and confidential record keeping: Record keeping is very important from the point of view that it is the patient's history. It is also very confidential in nature.

• Getting in touch with other health care professionals and referring patients requiring other specific medical attention: Healthcare professionals as a group need to work together as they help patients with different ailments. 

In case the patient has an ailment that is beyond his reach, he is expected to (on moral grounds) help the patient out through another health care professional.

• Having Continued Professional Development (CPD) through case review, training, attending conferences, and reading professional journals: Advancements in the field of health care are constant. Self study and research is the need of the hour.

If self-employed, maintaining proper management and promotional activities: After all it is your bread and butter, and you need to earn it ethically.

In view of the increasing stress in our lives, job or business prospects for chiropractors seem very bright. Although, it is very essential for them to make sure that they are well-updated about all details and developments in their field, and some other inter-related fields, so that they can provide better, well-rounded counseling and guidance!