How Can I Get a Job in Sports Chiropractic?

 Four Ways to Jumpstart Your Sports Chiropractic Job

Sports chiropractic is a specialized field that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries in athletes of all levels. The best sports chiropractors work with athletes to improve their performance and reduce their risk of injury. They also provide treatment for sports-related injuries, such as neck pain, back pain, muscle strains, and joint injuries. 

If you seek a sports chiropractic job, there are four things you can do to increase your chances of success. 

1. Get certified in sports chiropractic.

Several organizations offer certification in sports chiropractic. The best-known is the Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) offered by the American Board of Chiropractic Specialties (ABCS) and the Northwestern Health Sciences University Office of Continuing Education. To obtain CCSP certification, you must complete a two-year post-doctoral program in sports chiropractic. 

2. Gain experience working with athletes.

The best chiropractors looking to emphasize in sports medicine rack up experience with athletes by volunteering or interning with a sports chiropractor or a sports team. You can also look for opportunities to shadow or assist sports chiropractors at sporting events. At NWHSU, our community-based internship program provides these hands-on opportunities.   

3. Network with the best sports chiropractors and sports medicine professionals.

Networking is a great way to learn about sports chiropractic job opportunities and meet people who can help advance your career. Attend conferences and events related to sports chiropractic and sports medicine. You can also join online and in-person communities of sports chiropractors and other sports medicine professionals. 

4. Market yourself as a sports chiropractor.

Once you have the necessary education, training, and experience, you need to start marketing yourself as a sports chiropractor. Create a website and social media presence and start developing relationships with local coaches and trainers. You can also reach out to local sports teams and offer your services. 

Here are some additional tips for getting a job in sports chiropractic: 

• Be persistent. It may take some time to find a job, but don’t give up. Keep networking and applying for jobs. Your first sports chiropractic job could be the stepping stone to your dream position. Say yes to the developmental opportunities that will get you there. 
• Be willing to relocate. There may be more job opportunities in certain geographic areas than others. Be open to new locations where there is a high demand for sports chiropractors. 
• Be flexible. You may need to start out in a part-time or freelance position. Recognize you may need to start small and work your way up. 

With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goal of becoming a successful sports chiropractor. 

Sports Chiropractor Job Description 

The specific sports chiropractor job description may vary depending on the employer and setting, but some common responsibilities include: 

• Conducting patient consultations to review medical histories, discuss symptoms, and perform physical examinations. 
• Using diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and MRIs, to assess patients’ injuries. 
• Performing chiropractic adjustments and other treatments to improve patients’ range of motion, reduce their pain, and promote healing. 
• Developing and implementing treatment plans for athletes of all ages and abilities. 
• Providing athletes with education and advice on injury prevention and performance enhancement. 
• Working with other members of the medical team, such as coaches, trainers, and physicians, to coordinate athletes’ care. 

Qualifications for a sports chiropractic job 

To become a sports chiropractor, you must complete a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from an accredited chiropractic college. Once you have your degree, you will need to pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams and obtain a chiropractic license in the state where you plan to practice. 

In addition to the basic requirements for chiropractors, sports chiropractors often have additional training and experience in sports medicine. Some chiropractors also choose to get certified in sports chiropractic by an organization such as the ABCS. 

Skills and experience required for a sports chiropractic job 

In addition to the formal education and training requirements, sports chiropractors should have the following skills and experience: 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
• Patience and compassion. 
• A good understanding of sports and athletics. 

Where do sports chiropractors work? 

Sports chiropractors may work in a variety of settings, including: 

• Private practice 
• Sports clinics 
• Chiropractic clinics 
• Hospitals 
• Universities 
• Professional sports teams 

Job outlook for sports chiropractors 

The job outlook for sports chiropractors is projected to grow much faster than average over the next decade. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing popularity of sports and the growing awareness of the benefits of chiropractic care.

Why NWHSU’s Doctor of Chiropractic Sports & Rehabilitation Emphasis

If the chiropractor job description inspires you, our Doctor of Chiropractic with a Sports and Rehabilitation emphasis may be the perfect fit. 

• Earn a specialization without additional time: Our sports and rehabilitation emphasis can be added to your degree seamlessly and will not prolong your time spent at NWHSU. 
• Focus on the whole body. As one of the best sports chiropractors, you will need to understand the whole body, which is what we teach at NWHSU. 
• Set yourself apart. You will earn the credentials to differentiate yourself from other chiropractic applicants.  

Who can apply?

We accept both traditional and non-traditional students from a variety of academic backgrounds. View our admission requirements to learn more.  

Financial aid at NWHSU

Invest in your future. We offer scholarships, grants, loans, and other aid to help you make your journey more affordable. Learn about financial aid.

Apply Today!

Ready to begin your future in NWHSU’s Doctor of Chiropractic Sports & Rehabilitation Emphasis? 

LEARN MORE About Our Doctor of Chiropractic Sports & Rehabilitation Emphasis Program