Is becoming a pediatric chiropractor right for me?
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How to become a Pediatric Chiropractor
Bachelor’s Degree
There is not a specific degree that is required for pre-chiropractic medicine undergraduate study. According to the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, aspiring pediatric chiropractors are most likely to earn a bachelor’s in one for these disciplines:
Common prerequisite classes include human anatomy, physiology, embryology, genetics, microbiology, immunology, cellular biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition, nuclear medicine, biomechanics, and statistics.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) Degree
Prospective pediatric chiropractors must complete a four-year chiropractic program at a chiropractic college accredited by the Councils on Chiropractic Education International (CCEI). The curriculum combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experience, with emphasis on anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, diagnosis, and chiropractic techniques.
Licensure
Chiropractic graduates must obtain licensure in the state where they plan to practise. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include passing the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam and meeting state-specific requirements.
Practical Experience
New chiropractic graduates who wish to specialize in pediatric chiropractic can gain experience working with children in a chiropractic clinic or a pediatric healthcare setting. This can be done through internships, residencies, or working under the supervision of experienced pediatric chiropractors.
Further Education or Training
Pediatric chiropractors may choose to pursue additional education or training in areas such as acupuncture or massage therapy to enhance their skills and expertise.
Professional Organizations and Certifications
As the field of chiropractic is constantly evolving, it is important to stay up to date with the latest technologies, developments, and best practices. Several chiropractic organizations provide advocacy efforts, access to professional events, continuing education opportunities, and research and resources, as well as a network of like-minded professionals working in the field.
Many pediatric chiropractors hold certifications offered by these organizations, which demonstrate expertise in the field as well as a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. While they are voluntary, some employers may require certification as a condition of employment.
- Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics (DICCCP) – This postgraduate training program is offered by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). It involves 400 hours of coursework in areas such as prenatal and perinatal care, developmental anatomy and physiology, pediatric development disorders, neurological and behavioral assessment, clinical nutrition, and pediatric chiropractic adjustment techniques. Program participants must also complete 120 hours of hands-on clinical experience working with children. Graduates of the DICCP program are equipped with specialized skills and knowledge to provide safe and effective chiropractic care for infants, children, and pregnant women.
- Certification in Webster Technique – This certification is also offered by the ICPA. The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic technique used to address pelvic misalignment in pregnant women.
Also supporting the pediatric chiropractic community are these organizations:
- Council on Chiropractic Pediatrics (CCP), a council within the American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
- Academy Council of Chiropractic Pediatrics
- Pediatric Chiropractic Research Foundation (PCRF)