In a world increasingly focused on holistic health and wellness, chiropractic care has emerged as a popular choice for Michigan residents seeking natural pain relief and improved overall well-being. Chiropractors play a vital role in the healthcare landscape, offering a drug-free, non-invasive approach to addressing a wide range of conditions. By focusing on the intricate relationship between the spine, nervous system and overall health, chiropractic care aims to restore the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Unlike traditional medical approaches that often focus solely on symptom management, chiropractic care takes a holistic view, considering the entire person—mind, body and spirit. Said Dr. Hannah Staples, COO of 100% Chiropractic, which has franchises in Grand Rapids, Troy and Caldonia, Michigan, “Our goal is to empower patients through education, helping them understand that chiropractic care is about far more than just addressing immediate pain; it’s about enhancing overall health and well-being. We strive to inform and teach individuals how they can incorporate chiropractic principles into their lives for long-term benefits.”
“Chiropractors care for patients with a wide variety of symptoms and concerns,” said Dr. Staples. “Since the nervous system controls every part of the body, removing interference through chiropractic care opens up limitless potential for healing. Many people initially seek chiropractic care for back pain, neck pain or headaches, often experience additional benefits like improved digestion, reduced anxiety, relief from seasonal allergies and better sleep quality.”
Chiropractors in Michigan are dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal health by addressing the root cause of their pain and discomfort. This patient-centered approach emphasizes not only pain relief but also long-term wellness through lifestyle modifications, preventative care and patient education.
Academic learning is the cornerstone of a chiropractic education. You’ll begin at the undergraduate level and move on to earn a doctoral degree.
Undergraduate studies
Before embarking on the journey to becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic, a solid foundation in undergraduate studies is essential.
Chiropractic programs build upon a strong understanding of science, particularly in the areas of biology, chemistry and physics. These subjects provide the groundwork for understanding the complexities of the human body, its systems and how they interact.
While there isn’t a mandatory “pre-chiropractic” bachelor’s degree, aspiring chiropractors often pursue degrees in related fields such as:
Biology: Provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms and their functions.
Human biology: Focuses specifically on the human body, its anatomy and physiology
Kinesiology: Explores the science of human movement, which is relevant to chiropractic adjustments and rehabilitation
Most Doctor of Chiropractic programs require a minimum GPA for admission, typically around 3.0 or higher. In addition to core science courses, it’s recommended to take courses in:
Anatomy and physiology: In-depth study of the human body’s structure and function.
Psychology: Understanding human behavior and mental processes is valuable for patient interaction.
Communication: Effective communication skills are crucial for building rapport with patients and explaining treatment plans.
Statistics: Basic knowledge of statistics is helpful for interpreting research and data analysis.
By completing a rigorous undergraduate program with a focus on science and relevant coursework, you’ll be well-prepared for the challenges and rewards of a Doctor of Chiropractic program.
Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program
After completing the necessary undergraduate coursework, the next step is to enroll in a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) program. This rigorous program typically takes four years to complete and delves deep into the principles and practices of chiropractic care. Your DC program length should include clinical internships and practical experience.
Dr. Staples explained, “Chiropractic education is about more than just classroom learning. Students typically complete internships during the last six months of their program, gaining hands-on experience in practice settings. Additionally, there are opportunities to be involved in student clinics where aspiring chiropractors provide care for their peers, performing exams, physicals and various assessments.”
“A typical chiropractic program takes a minimum of four years to complete after earning a bachelor’s degree, resulting in a total of over seven years of education after high school.”
“In my case, I started my journey at 18 and graduated with my Doctor of Chiropractic degree by 23. Due to the accelerated coursework and dual enrollment I pursued, I completed my entire education, including undergraduate requirements, in just five years.”
The curriculum of a DC program is comprehensive, covering a wide range of subjects essential for becoming a skilled chiropractor. Key areas of study include:
Anatomy and physiology: Advanced study of the human body’s structure and function, with a focus on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.
Chiropractic philosophy: Explores the core principles and theories behind chiropractic care, including the body’s innate healing abilities.
Chiropractic technique: Hands-on training in various adjustment techniques and therapies, including spinal manipulation, extremity adjusting and other modalities.
Diagnosis and imaging: Developing skills in patient examination, diagnosis and interpretation of diagnostic imaging.
Clinical sciences: Covers topics such as pathology, neurology, orthopedics and nutrition, providing a comprehensive understanding of health and disease.
Practice management: Prepares students for the business aspects of running a chiropractic practice, including ethics, patient communication and legal considerations.
To ensure you receive a quality education that meets professional standards, it’s crucial to choose a program accredited by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE).
Step 2: Pass the National Board examinations
Passing the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams is a crucial step toward becoming a licensed chiropractor in Michigan and most other states. These comprehensive exams are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in various areas of chiropractic practice, ensuring you meet the competency standards required for safe and effective patient care.
What’s covered in the NBCE exams
The NBCE exams are divided into multiple parts, each focusing on different aspects of chiropractic knowledge and skills:
Part I assesses your understanding of basic science knowledge essential for chiropractic practice, including general anatomy, spinal anatomy, physiology, chemistry, pathology and mibrobiology.
Part II evaluates your knowledge and application of clinical science concepts, such as general diagnosis, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, diagnostic imaging and clinical sciences.
Part III is a practical exam that assesses your clinical skills in areas such as:
Case history
Physical examination
Chiropractic technique
Diagnostic imaging
Neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis
Pass rates in Michigan
The NBCE provides detailed information on pass rates for each exam part on their website. Pass rates can vary, but generally, a significant majority of test-takers successfully pass the exams. Each part of the exam is scored individually, and you must achieve a passing score on each part to be eligible for licensure.
By successfully completing the NBCE exams, you demonstrate your competency in the foundational knowledge and clinical skills necessary for providing safe and effective chiropractic care. This achievement is a significant milestone on your path to becoming a licensed chiropractor in Michigan.
Step 3: Become licensed in Michigan
Once you’ve successfully completed your Doctor of Chiropractic program and passed the NBCE exams, you’re ready to pursue licensure in Michigan. This process involves fulfilling specific requirements set by the Michigan Board of Chiropractic Examiners to ensure you meet the professional standards for practicing in the state.
Requirements for licensure
Apply: Submit a completed application form to the Michigan Board of Chiropractic Examiners. You can usually find the application on their website or request it by mail.
Pay the fee: Pay the required application and licensing fees. These fees can vary, so it’s important to check the Board’s website for current amounts.
Education verification: Provide official transcripts from your chiropractic college to verify your graduation from a CCE-accredited program.
Submit NBCE exam scores: Submit official score reports from the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners demonstrating that you have passed all required exam parts.
Complete a background check: Undergo a criminal background check as required by the Board. This typically involves fingerprinting and a background investigation.
Keep up with continuing education requirements: Michigan requires chiropractors to complete a certain number of continuing education hours every two years to maintain their license. This ensures that practitioners stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices in chiropractic care.
Step 4: Consider specializing
While all Chiropractors receive comprehensive training in foundational principles and techniques, many choose to specialize in specific areas of chiropractic care to further refine their skills and cater to particular patient populations. This can lead to a more focused and fulfilling career path.
Some common chiropractic specialties include:
Sports chiropractic: Focuses on the prevention and treatment of sports-related injuries, optimizing athletic performance and promoting recovery.
Pediatrics: Specializes in providing gentle and effective chiropractic care for children and adolescents, addressing issues related to growth and development.
Prenatal and postpartum: Provides specialized care for pregnant women, addressing musculoskeletal changes during pregnancy and assisting with postpartum recovery.
Neurology: Focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, addressing neurological conditions and promoting optimal nerve function.
Nutrition: Integrates nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice into chiropractic care to support overall health and wellness.
Rehabilitation: Emphasizes therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation programs to enhance recovery and improve functional capacity.
Chiropractic certification
To specialize in a particular area, Chiropractors often pursue additional certifications and training beyond their initial DC degree. Some relevant certifications include:
Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP): Offered by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP)
Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics (DICCP): Offered by the International Chiropractic Pediatrics Association (ICPA)
Webster Technique Certification: A specialized technique for pregnant women, offered by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA)
Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB): Offered by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (ACNB)
These certifications typically involve completing specific coursework, clinical experience and passing examinations to demonstrate proficiency in the chosen specialty.
By pursuing specialization, Chiropractors can deepen their expertise, expand their career opportunities and provide more targeted and effective care to their patients.
Skills and qualities for Michigan chiropractors
To excel as a chiropractor, you’ll need a blend of essential skills and qualities that allow you to provide exceptional care and build strong relationships with your patients.
Some of the important characteristics that you will utilize on a daily basis include:
Strong foundation in science and anatomy
A thorough understanding of the human body is crucial for chiropractors to accurately diagnose and treat patient conditions. This includes a deep knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and the nervous system. A solid foundation in science will enable you to understand how the body functions, identify musculoskeletal abnormalities and develop effective treatment plans.
Manual dexterity and precision
Chiropractic techniques often involve precise adjustments and manipulations of the spine and other joints. Having excellent manual dexterity and precision is essential for performing these techniques safely and effectively. This skill is developed through practice and experience, and it requires a steady hand and a keen sense of touch.
Communication and interpersonal skills
Effective communication and interpersonal skills are vital for building rapport with patients, establishing trust and providing personalized care. You’ll need to be able to explain complex medical concepts in a clear and understandable way, listen attentively to patients’ concerns and provide empathetic support throughout their treatment journey. Said Dr. Staples, “Successful chiropractors need strong communication skills to effectively connect with patients. You must be able to clearly articulate your treatment approach and educate patients about chiropractic care.”
“Look for opportunities to practice effective communication through public speaking, group projects or volunteering in roles that require significant interaction with others,” she advised. “This will help enhance your professional skills while boosting your confidence and capability in your future career.”
Critical thinking and problem solving
Chiropractors often encounter complex cases that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose and develop effective treatment plans. This involves analyzing patient information, identifying underlying issues and considering multiple treatment options. The ability to think critically and solve problems effectively is essential for providing high-quality care.
Compassion and empathy
Chiropractic care is a hands-on profession that involves close interaction with patients. Compassion and empathy are essential for building strong relationships with patients and providing a supportive and caring environment. By demonstrating genuine concern for your patients’ well-being, you can foster trust and create a positive therapeutic experience.
Other helpful qualities and skills
In addition to the core skills listed above, there are several other skills and qualities that can benefit Michigan chiropractors in their practice:
Business acumen: Dr. Staples said business and financial management skills are essential. “The challenge lies in balancing the emotional connection with the need to lead and run a successful practice and integrating your passion for patient care with effective business strategies. Consider taking business classes. Understanding the business side of chiropractic practice is crucial. Learning how to attract and retain patients and grasp the financial and operational aspects of running a practice will set you up for success—whether you choose to own your own practice or work in an existing one. This knowledge is a key factor in achieving overall success in your career.”
Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate a team, especially if working in a group practice.
Cultural sensitivity: Understanding and respecting diverse patient populations.
Non-stop learning: A commitment to lifelong learning and professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in chiropractic care.
Working as a chiropractor in Michigan
After obtaining your license, you’ll find a diverse range of career opportunities available to chiropractors in Michigan. The best career path for you will depend upon your individual preferences, goals and entrepreneurial spirit. Said Dr. Staples, “If you’re thinking about a career in chiropractic, my advice is to embrace the numerous opportunities available in the field. Whether you want to run your own practice or work within a corporation, the field offers diverse paths and plenty of room for growth.”
Consider your strengths, interests and desired work environment when exploring different career options. Here are some common paths you can consider:
Private practice
Many chiropractors choose to establish their own private practice, giving them autonomy and control over their work environment and patient care.
Some of the perks include:
Setting your own hours, making your own decisions and building your own brand and reputation within the community.
Developing strong, long-term relationships with patients and providing personalized care tailored to their individual needs and preferences.
The potential to earn a higher income compared to working for someone else by being able to structure your schedule to fit your income goals.
Establishing yourself as a healthcare provider within your local community and contributing to the well-being of your neighborhood and surrounding area.
Things to consider when you’re getting started include:
Opening a practice requires a significant financial investment for equipment, rent, marketing and other expenses.
It takes time and effort to attract and retain new patients, especially in areas with other established chiropractic practices.
Managing the business side of the practice, including billing, insurance, marketing, taxes, healthcare insurance and human resources, can be time-consuming and demanding.
Group practice
Joining a group practice allows you to collaborate with other chiropractors, share resources and benefit from a built-in patient base and support system.
Benefit from shared office space, equipment and administrative staff, reducing overhead costs and administrative burdens.
Learn from other experienced chiropractors, share knowledge and receive support and guidance from colleagues.
Share the responsibility of managing the a practice, allowing you to focus more on patient care.
Group practices may offer more flexible schedules and opportunities for time off and life events.
Hospitals and clinics
Some chiropractors work within hospitals or larger healthcare systems, providing chiropractic services to patients within a more traditional medical setting.
Collaborate with medical doctors and other specialists, and integrate medical care. Dr. Staples encouraged collaboration, and said, “Collaboration with other healthcare professionals is a vital part of being involved in a patient’s overall health journey. For instance, I often work with midwives and OBGYNs, even neurologists on occasion, as my patients frequently discuss their care with these providers—this creates a natural synergy between us all. Building strong relationships within the community is crucial; as patients share their experiences with various providers, it naturally promotes collaboration and leads to more comprehensive care.”
Utilize hospital resources, diagnostic imaging and other facilities to enhance patient care and expand treatment options.
Opportunities to participate in research projects or teach chiropractic techniques to other types of healthcare providers within the hospital system.
A day in the life…
Dr. Staples said everyday starts early at 100% Chiropractic. “The office opens at 7 am, and I prepare for the day, getting ready for X-rays and reviewing patient recommendations. By 7:30, my team arrives, and we start prepping the office to ensure everything is ready for our patients. At 7:45 we have a pre-shift meeting to discuss the day’s overview and game plan, including who will greet which patients—all aimed at providing the best possible experience.”
“We see a steady stream of patients as soon as the doors open at 8 am when we handle walk-ins and scheduled appointments. At 9 am, we review X-rays for new patients, educate them about their results and determine the next steps for their health. I wrap up consultations with high energy and ensure that patients feel informed and supported.”
“The afternoon shift mirrors the morning, and we usually wrap up around 6 pm, at which point we have a post-shift meeting to reflect on the day and discuss what went well and note any areas for improvement. This is also a great time to touch on our social media presence, patient communication and referral strategies, ensuring that every detail of running our practice is accounted for.”
Salaries for chiropractors in Michigan
The salary of a chiropractor in Michigan can vary based on several factors, including experience, location, specialization and type of practice. However, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Chiropractors
10%$42,140
25%$61,830
50%$78,440Median
75%$101,420
90%$152,520
Median Hourly Wage$38
Job growth9.5%
Total Employment1,280
Metro area
Median Salary
Bottom 10%
Top 10%
Kalamazoo-Portage, MI
$94,990
$42,520
$152,870
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood, MI
$92,480
$49,300
$203,570
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI
$82,390
$43,200
$146,610
Flint, MI
$80,670
$52,130
$187,560
Ann Arbor, MI
$74,740
$55,270
N/A
Lansing-East Lansing, MI
$74,250
$41,180
N/A
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 median salary; projected job growth through 2034. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Factors that may influence your salary
Experience: As with most professions, experience plays a significant role in determining salary. Entry-level chiropractors generally earn less than those with several years of experience.
Location: Salaries can vary depending on the city or region within Michigan. Also the Upper Peninsula is more rural than the lower part of the state, which has more cities and universities. Urban areas or locations with a higher cost of living may offer higher salaries.
Specialization: Chiropractors with specialized certifications in areas like sports chiropractic or pediatrics may command higher salaries due to their specialized skills.
Type of practice: Chiropractors in private practice often have the potential to earn more than those working in group practices or hospitals, but this also comes with increased responsibility and risk.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for chiropractors in Michigan is positive overall. The demand for chiropractic care is expected to grow in the coming years as more people seek non-invasive and holistic approaches to healthcare. This increasing demand, coupled with an aging population and a growing focus on preventative wellness, creates favorable career prospects for aspiring chiropractors in the state.
The BLS provides occupational outlook data for chiropractors nationwide, which can give you a broader perspective on career trends. Currently there is a projected 9.5% job growt rate through 2034, which is considerably higher than the national average for all other jobs combined.
Resources to learn more
To further your understanding of chiropractic care and the opportunities available in Michigan, here are some helpful resources:
American Chiropractic Association (ACA): The ACA is the largest chiropractic organization in the United States, providing resources, education and support for chiropractors nationwide
Journal of the American Chiropractic Association: The official journal of the ACA, offering research articles, clinical case studies and other publications on chiropractic practice and research.
Becoming a chiropractor in Michigan is a rewarding career path that offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of your patients. By following the steps outlined in this guide and dedicating yourself to continuous learning and professional development, you can achieve your goal of becoming a chiropractor in the state.
Remember, this is just a starting point. The journey to becoming a chiropractor is ongoing, and it requires continuous learning and dedication. By staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in chiropractic care, building strong relationships with your patients and providing exceptional care, you may be able to establish a successful practice and make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of your community.
