Chiropractors
Chiropractors diagnose and treat musculoskeletal problems, primarily through spinal manipulation and adjustment. They work in private practice offices, hospitals, or wellness centers, evaluating patients with back pain, neck pain, and related conditions. Treatment focuses on correcting spinal and pelvic alignment to restore function and reduce pain.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against chiropractors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves patient consultations, physical examinations, X-rays or other imaging, and hands-on spinal adjustments. Chiropractors spend time reviewing patient histories, developing treatment plans, and performing manipulations. Administrative work includes documenting patient records, scheduling follow-up appointments, and insurance coordination. Patient education about posture and exercises is often part of the work.
Who this work suits
Holland code RSI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you're drawn to direct patient care and problem-solving grounded in physical evidence. You prefer working with your hands and enjoy the social aspect of building patient relationships over time, while applying technical knowledge to real musculoskeletal challenges.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Chiropractor · Military Treatment Facilities under DHA · Fort Polk, Louisiana · $89508–$116362
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $100,370 | $134,990 | $134,990 | 1,370 |
| New York | $82,630 | $120,950 | $130,870 | 1,360 |
| Maine | $76,410 | $107,300 | $123,980 | 250 |
| Washington | $81,850 | $104,070 | $107,140 | 1,130 |
| Alaska | $101,990 | $103,500 | $133,690 | 90 |
| Arizona | $76,020 | $100,260 | $107,880 | 1,050 |
| North Carolina | $59,500 | $91,540 | $124,610 | 1,020 |
| Virginia | $49,680 | $88,030 | $123,790 | 900 |
| Texas | $60,370 | $87,520 | $110,410 | 2,840 |
| Oklahoma | $63,920 | $85,580 | $134,630 | 500 |
| Maryland | $64,820 | $85,330 | $105,770 | 390 |
| Florida | $66,060 | $84,280 | $102,000 | 3,220 |
All 48 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Diplomate American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (DACBSP) — American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians
- Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) — American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians
- Post Rehab Conditioning Specialist — American Academy of Health, Fitness, & Rehabilitation Professionals
- Rehabilitation Therapy Technician — American Education Certification Association
- National Reflexology Certification - Foot Exam (CR) — American Reflexology Certification Board
- Animal Chiropractic Certification — American Veterinary Chiropractic Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against chiropractors and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.