How Educated is a Chiropractor?
Chiropractic (D.C) Education vs. A Medical Doctor (M.D) Degree Requirements
These basic educational requirements for graduates of both chiropractic and medical schools show that although each has its own specialties, the hours of classroom instruction are about the same. (The class hours for basic science comparisons were compiled and averaged following a review of curricula of 18 chiropractic colleges and 22 medical schools.)
Minimum Required Hours
Chiropractic College – Medical School
520 Anatomy/Embryology 508
420 Physiology 326
271 Pathology 335
300 Chemistry/Biochemistry 325
114 Microbiology 130
370 Diagnosis 374
320 Neurology 112
65 Psychology/Psychiatry 144
65 Obstetrics & Gynecology 198
217 X-ray 148
225 Orthopedics 156
2,419 Total Hours for Degree 2,047
1,598 Specialty Courses 1,492
4,485 Entire Total Hours 4,248
Is Chiropractic Safe?
Yes. Chiropractic is safe when employed skillfully and appropriately. There is significant research available suggesting that Chiropractic is indeed the safest treatment option available for relief from neck pain, back pain, headaches and other musculo-skeletal disorders.
Is it Bad to ‘crack’ your own neck or back?
Yes. ‘Cracking’ your own neck becomes a problem when it is done numerous times a day throughout one’s life. The reason is these vertebral segments become hypermobile and move way too easily. Also, the neck ligaments and surrounding musculature of the neck become stretched permanently which leads to instability of the neck, postural issues, headaches etc.
Do Chiropractors work with medical doctors? Do they refer to specialists?
Absolutely. The real question here is, “What is best for the patient and his/her condition?” Dr. Dooley effectively diagnoses each patient’s complaint and if a condition needs a referral he will gladly provide that for the patient. Dr. Dooley has a strong network of health care officials in the Miami Valley area that he works well with and vice versa.
How often should I see a Chiropractor?
This is based on your diagnosis. Some injuries require more visits, some require less visits. We need to get you back to normal as quickly as possible as well as preventing re-injury. My primary goal is to give the patient pain relief and my second goal is providing the patient the opportunity to get control over their pain. Through a comprehensive protocol of treatment we also expect our patients to take an active approach in their care at the office and at home.
Aren’t all Chiropractors the same?
No. There are many different Chiropractic techniques. At Chiropractic Associates of Centerville we do not limit ourselves to one specific treatment technique as we use many. We are confident that at least one will work for you. If you’ve had a bad experience with a specific adjusting technique then another adjusting route will be performed. In some instances patients respond better to rehabilitative therapy and manual therapy protocols rather than adjusting. We firmly believe that we have what is right for you.
Can a Chiropractor refer for MRI, Blood work, or other diagnostic?
No problem! If your diagnosis requires further diagnostic imaging Dr. Dooley is more than willing to provide a referral.
Can a Chiropractor perform a sports physical?
Yes. We perform sports physicals. If you are under the age of 18 there must be a parent or guardian present.