Chiropractic, Chiropractic Careers

Chiropractic is a Growing Field

Is chiropractic a growing field? The short answer is yes. Chiropractic has come a long way since its industry beginnings over 100 years ago. Today, the field has a promising job outlook, growing research backing its effectiveness, and expanding opportunities for specialization. It is truly a profession on the rise. 

For those considering a career in chiropractic, there has never been a better time to enter the field.

Is Chiropractic a Growing Field? Let’s Look at the Numbers

When we say chiropractic is a career on the rise, we mean it! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects employment opportunities to grow by 10% over the next decade. That’s significantly faster than average compared to other careers. This translates to thousands of new job openings, driven by an increasing demand for holistic healthcare solutions.

According to the BLS, several factors contribute to this growth:

  • Aging Population: As baby-boomers age, conditions such as back pain, arthritis, and joint issues are becoming more prevalent. Chiropractic care is known for its effectiveness in managing musculoskeletal problems, so it is becoming a preferred treatment option among older adults.
  • Increased Interest: There has been increasing public demand for integrative and complementary healthcare, which has led to greater acceptance of chiropractic treatment.
  • Integration into Mainstream Healthcare: Because it is nonsurgical and a good alternative to pharmaceuticals, chiropractors are more frequently collaborating with other healthcare providers and finding work in larger healthcare systems.

Expanding Research Validates Chiropractic Care

One of the most exciting developments in the field of chiropractic is the growing body of research supporting its efficacy. Studies have consistently shown the benefits of chiropractic care for conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Studies also show a high level of patient satisfaction, not only with the treatment outcomes, but the quality and type of care chiropractors provide.

All of this is supporting the integration of chiropractic into mainstream healthcare. For example, the American College of Physicians now includes spinal manipulation—a chiropractic technique—in its guidelines for managing low back pain. Emerging research is also exploring chiropractic’s role in addressing broader health concerns, such as reducing stress and enhancing athletic performance. 

This expanding evidence base is helping to legitimize chiropractic care in the eyes of both the public and other healthcare professionals, paving the way for greater integration and more growth in the field.

A Flexible and Rewarding Career Path

A Variety of Work Settings

Chiropractors have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, including private practices, multidisciplinary clinics, and sports organizations. Many also choose to start their own practices, which offers even more flexibility and the opportunity to pursue a vision. 

According to the BLS, a majority of chiropractors who are employed (not working for themselves) work as associates in clinics owned by other chiropractors or with integrative health teams. But some choose alternative routes such as working in corporate, research, policy, academia, or wider health care systems. This can include chiropractic jobs in places like universities, VA medical centers, hospitals, or even the airport. 

Many Ways to Specialize

One of the reasons chiropractic is an appealing career choice is the ability to specialize in areas that align with personal interests or community needs. Popular areas of specialization include:

    • Sports and Rehabilitation: Working with athletes to optimize performance and prevent injuries.
    • Multidisciplinary Practice: Integrating chiropractic techniques with other non-pharmacological therapies, such as massage, acupuncture, functional nutrition, or health coaching.
    • Pediatric: Addressing developmental and musculoskeletal issues in children.
    • Pain Management: Treating chronic pain, migraines, and other chronic issues.

Specialization allows chiropractors to carve out a niche, enhance their expertise, and attract a dedicated patient base.

High Job Satisfaction

The financial rewards are also appealing. The BLS lists the national median annual wage for chiropractors as $76,500 with the potential for significantly higher earnings depending on location, specialization, and experience. Chiropractors in metropolitan areas like Minneapolis-St.Paul, or those who have a niche focus, often see even greater financial success. 

According to Dr. Katie BurnsRyan, dean for the College of Chiropractic at Northwestern Health Sciences University (NWHSU), it’s not just about salary. “Factors such as overall job satisfaction, flexible schedules, and healthcare philosophy are important. Chiropractors have high job satisfaction because they know what they are doing is meaningful,” she says.

In Conclusion: Is Chiropractic a Growing Field? Yes, with  Promising Future

With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives, a career in chiropractic offers unparalleled opportunities. 

Additionally, the increasing focus on holistic and preventive healthcare, combined with advancements in technology and research, makes this an exciting time to join the profession. Innovations like telehealth and wearable health devices are beginning to integrate into chiropractic practices, offering new ways to treat and engage with patients.

Add to that the growing research base and opportunities for specialization, and it’s clear why this field is attracting the next generation of healthcare providers.

Your next step: Reach out for more information

These are only some of the chiropractic jobs available to you as a chiropractor. If you want to build a career as a Doctor of Chiropractic at NWHSU, we can prepare you for success. 

Start your application process today! Reach out to NWHSU for personalized support on your path.