What's the Difference Between a Chiropractor and a Doctor?

There is a very big difference when it comes to doctors and chiropractors. For one, chiropractors are health care professionals that specialize in the body's structure and function. They deal with the spine of patients. When it comes to doctors, they specialize in a variety of fields - some are surgeons, gynecologists and obstetricians. The physician is trained in all areas of medical diagnosis and care. They are also well versed in surgical procedures and pharmacology.

Education Requirements for Chiropractors

To become a chiropractor, you will have to attend a chiropractic school to obtain a two year undergraduate degree. After graduation, you have to do an internship that lasts for two years, within an outpatient center.



Education Requirements for Medical Doctors

To become a medical physician, you will have to obtain a four year undergraduate degree from a college or university and then complete another four years at a medical school. You may also need postdoctoral specialty education if you're looking to work in a specific area of the medical field. Then you would have to complete an internship for a year at a hospital and a two to three year residency within your specialty.

Licensing for Chiropractors

In order to work in this field, you will have to become licensed in your state by passing the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners test.

Licensing for Medical Doctors

After graduating from school and completing your residency and internship, you will have to become board certified. They are required to pass the State Board of Medical Examiners test. In order to take the board certification test, you would need to meet the educational requirements. To stay certified, you will to meet certain requirements.

Prescribing Medicine


Doctors are able to prescribe medications, but chiropractors aren't.