Who are Chiropractors?
A chiropractor is a regulated health professional, regulated by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991.
In order to practise as a chiropractor or use the title of “chiropractor” in Ontario, an individual must meet the registration requirements of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO). These requirements include graduation from an accredited chiropractic college (requiring a minimum seven years of post-secondary education), passing examinations in clinical competency as well as legislation and ethics, and becoming registered with CCO. As a member of a regulated health profession, chiropractors are required to participate in continuing education and professional development, including peer and practice assessment.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
The scope of practice of chiropractic in Ontario is defined in the Chiropractic Act, 1991, as follows:
The practice of chiropractic is the assessment of conditions related to the spine, nervous system and joints and the diagnosis, prevention and treatment, primarily by adjustment, of,
(a) dysfunctions or disorders arising from the structures or functions of the spine and the effects of those dysfunctions or disorders on the nervous system; and
(b) dysfunctions or disorders arising from the structures or functions of the joints.
Chiropractors practise within the scope of practice to examine, diagnose and provide care to patients with a variety of health concerns related to the spine and joints and the effect on the nervous system, such as low back, shoulder and knee pain, sports injuries, and overall wellness care. Chiropractors focus on patient-centered care, use manual therapies, and often work in collaboration with other regulated health professionals.
What Should You Expect From a Chiropractor?
- An initial consultation to review your complaint, case history, and available reports
- An explanation of their fee structure and business practices
- An explanation of and obtaining your consent for a physical examination and appropriate diagnostic tests
- A chiropractic examination, which may include orthopedic, neurological, muscle function, joint function and radiographic testing
- A report of findings, which will include a diagnosis or clinical impression with a complete explanation of what has been found
- A referral to another regulated health professional, if the chiropractor feels your health condition is outside the chiropractic scope of practice
- Recommendations for care, which may include a course of chiropractic adjustment or manipulation, and/or adjunctive therapies such as muscle therapy, electrotherapy, lifestyle advice and recommendation of assistive devices
- Informed consent to the course of care
- Appropriate re-examinations
- Adherence to all CCO regulations, standards of practice, policies and guidelines
- Appropriate privacy and confidentiality throughout the doctor/patient relationship
Where Can You Find a Chiropractor?
Chiropractors practise in a variety of health care settings, including in solo practice, multi-chiropractor offices, multi-disciplinary settings, family health teams and hospitals. Many chiropractors are also involved in education, research, government, advocacy and regulation.