Doctor of Chiropractic (Chiropractor) is a health care professional specialized in the neuron-musculo-skeletal (NMS) system (a fancy word meaning the nerves, the muscles and the bones). When a patient sees a chiropractor, a detailed medical history on the chief complaint will be taken. Then the chiropractor will perform an examination focused on detecting muscle strength versus weakness, the range of motion of the complete spine, any structural abnormalities, and the posture assumed by the patient in a variety of positions. Lab values may also be ordered. X-rays and other images such as MRI and CT and PET Scan may be taken to help make a diagnosis and decide what type of treatment the patient needs. The chiropractor’s principal method of treatment is through adjustments (spinal manipulations) to restore the proper joint function of the spine and other osseous structures. Some chiropractors will also incorporate physiotherapy, rehabilitation exercise and nutritional counseling in their treatment protocols.
To become a chiropractor, a student typically begins with several years of undergraduate studies focused on biology and science. They then complete a 4-5 year program at a chiropractic college. Currently, Hong Kong does not have a chiropractic college. All the chiropractors in Hong Kong earned their degrees and board qualifications from aboard in countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France etc.
