State Chiropractic Boards

State chiropractic boards play a vital, multifaceted role in protecting public health and ensuring the integrity of the chiropractic profession across the United States. Their primary purpose is to regulate the practice of chiropractic medicine, which involves establishing and enforcing educational, ethical, and competency standards for those seeking to treat patients. This regulatory oversight is crucial for the initial licensing of chiropractic professionals. To become licensed, candidates must typically graduate from an accredited chiropractic college, pass national and state-specific board examinations, and demonstrate moral character, all criteria meticulously vetted by the state board.

The importance of this oversight cannot be overstated, particularly when considering the significant risks associated with unlicensed chiropractors and chiropractic practitioners. An unlicensed individual lacks the requisite knowledge of anatomy, physiology, differential diagnosis, and proper manipulative techniques. This knowledge gap dramatically increases the potential for patient harm, ranging from inadequate or misdirected care - delaying necessary medical treatment - to serious physical injuries, such as nerve damage or exacerbated musculoskeletal conditions, especially in the neck and spine. Furthermore, unlicensed individuals are not held accountable to professional codes of ethics or subject to disciplinary action, leaving the public vulnerable to malpractice, fraudulent billing, and exploitative behavior. By rigorously policing entry into the profession and investigating complaints against licensees, state boards serve as the public's essential safeguard, maintaining a standard of safe and effective care.

Use the resources below to learn more about your State Social Chiropractic Board.