What It Takes to Become a Chiropractor

Name: Steven Shoshany D.C, C.C.E.P.
Job Title: Chiropractor
Where: Manhattan, NY
Employer: Self-Employed
Years of Experience: 11 months
Education: Undergraduate CUNY NY, Post graduate Life, Chiropractic Atlanta Ga. Doctor of Chiropractic
Salary: See the PayScale Research Center for the median chiropractor salary.

What it Takes to Become a Chiropractor

If you’ve ever wondered about the average chiropractor salary or what it takes to become a chiropractor, then don’t miss this interview with Steven Shoshany.  This Manhattan chiropractor gave us a rare peek into chiropractic school, chiropractor jobs, factors that affect a chiropractor salary and how to become a chiropractor.

If you’re interested in becoming a chiropractor, curious about the typical chiropractor salary or want to know what questions to ask a chiropractor, this Salary Story should bring your career goals into alignment!

Chiropractor Job Description:

A chiropractor is a primary care physician whose focus is on the human frame and the proper function of the nervous system. Chiropractors use non-surgical, no-drug treatments that help/allow the body to heal naturally. Chiropractic care is over 100-years-old and time after time has been shown to be effective treatment for low back pain and neck pain, and is beneficial overall for proper well-being.

The spinal adjustment is the way chiropractors treat the subluxation complex, which is interference to the nervous system. Most chiropractors treat with their hands, others use instruments like the activator.

Can you describe your career steps in becoming a chiropractor?

I suffered from irritable bowel syndrome which is a gastric problem. After having every test like barium swallows and taking tons of pills, a friend recommended a chiropractor. The chiropractor explained to me the connection between spinal alignment and nervous function. After 3 visits, I did not have any more stomach pain. That is when I decided to become a chiropractor.

A chiropractor has to complete all the same classes as in medical school, but what is different are the methods that we use to treat the body (no drugs or surgery). Chiropractors undergo 4 national boards tests as well as as state boards.

Can you recall any memorable moments as a Manhattan chiropractor?

I practice one mile away from the World Trade Center. After September 11th, I felt I wanted to help, so I packed up my table and went down to ground zero and adjusted iron workers, fire fighters and police. Working with the Red Cross allowed me access to ground zero, I worked along side mental health professionals, massage therapists and medics providing much-needed care. I did this for about two months; it was a good feeling knowing that I was helping.

What is the outlook for chiropractor jobs?

The outlook for chiropractor jobs is good because we live in a stressful world and a chiropractic adjustment is a great way to allow the body to heal itself. Also, the field is growing because of our aging baby boomer population, and more people are turning to natural healthcare.

What factors can affect a chiropractor salary?

A chiropractor salary depends on the doctor. Working for yourself allows you the ability to make a larger chiropractor salary, but it also makes you work harder. It depends on what you want, some doctors only want to work three days and don’t want to build a practice. Building your own practice is tough, but it has it rewards, such as freedom to do it your way.

How does your salary compare to the average chiropractor salary?  The PayScale Salary Calculator is a quick and easy way to compare positions. But when you want powerful salary data and comparisons customized for your exact position, be sure to build a complete profile by taking PayScale’s full salary survey.

• Median Chiropractor Salary by Years of Experience
• Chiropractor Salaries by Employer Type
• Dr. Shoshany’s Web Site – DrShoshany.com