About Chiropractors
Chiropractors: What does a chiropractor do?
Chiropractors are spine and musculoskeletal (MSK) system experts. They are educated specifically to treat and recommend options to help reduce pain and to restore mobility. Chiropractic treatments may include an adjustment and other therapies, such as heat or massage. Learn more about treatments here.
They will help to prevent the reoccurrence of an injury so that people can return to normal activities and lead healthy, active lives.
What is the MSK system? It is made up of:
- bones
- muscles
- cartilage
- tendons
- joints
- connective tissues
- nervous system
When you visit a chiropractor they may also:
- recommend exercises as part of your treatment plan
- give you information about nutrition and a healthy diet
- give you information about general health
- make a direct referral
to any medical specialist for consultation and/or
treatment when it is within their scope of practice.
Highly regulated health care providers
Being regulated means that chiropractors in Alberta must obey all legislative requirements set by the government for all health care providers. Other health care professions that are regulated include nurses, dentists, medical doctors and optometrists.
In Alberta, the Health Professions Act ensures all regulated health care providers:
- are educated and trained to national standards
- practice within a defined scope of practice
- adhere to strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
- hold liability protection/coverage
- meet continuing competency standards
- are accountable to a regulatory organization
The College of Chiropractors of Alberta is entrusted with administering the regulatory requirements set by government in the Health Professions Act (legislation) for all chiropractors.
For concerns about a chiropractor, and to make a complaint please visit: Submit a complaint (theccoa.ca)
Highly educated
In Canada, chiropractors must:
- complete at least seven years of post-secondary education, including a four-year academic program at an accredited chiropractic college
- treat patients in a supervised clinic setting during their final two years of education
In Alberta, chiropractors must:
- pass a national clinical competency examination
- maintain professional competency through approved seminars and courses
