About chiropractors

Chiropractors: MSK experts

Doctors of chiropractic (chiropractors) are spine and musculoskeletal (MSK) system experts specifically trained to diagnose the underlying cause, treat and recommend options to relieve pain, restore mobility and prevent reoccurrence so people can lead healthy active lives.

The MSK system is comprised of:

  • bones
  • muscles
  • cartilage
  • tendons
  • joints
  • connective tissues
  • nervous system

As experts in spine and MSK health, chiropractors can also:

  • recommend exercises
  • give you information about nutrition and a healthy diet
  • give you information about general health and staying as healthy as possible

For more information, see chiropractic treatment.

Highly regulated

Being regulated means that chiropractors in Alberta must obey all legislative requirements set by the government for all health care providers. Other health care providers 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 Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors is entrusted with administering the requirements set by government in the Health Professions Act (legislation) for all chiropractors.

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

Additionally, to be a chiropractor in Alberta, doctors must:

  • pass national clinical competency examination
  • maintain professional competency through approved seminars and courses