Is a Chiropractor a Medical Doctor? Understanding Chiropractic Training, Credentials & Care

If you've ever searched for a chiropractor in Brandon, SD, you may have wondered what exactly a chiropractor is trained to do.

Are chiropractors doctors? Do they attend medical school? What's the difference between a Doctor of Chiropractic, a medical doctor, and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine?

These are common questions, especially when you're considering chiropractic care for back pain, neck discomfort, an injury, or trouble with mobility.

The simple answer is yes, chiropractors can be doctors—but they are not medical doctors unless they also hold an MD or DO degree. Chiropractors typically earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, which involves specialized education and clinical training focused on chiropractic and musculoskeletal care.

In this guide, we'll explain what a chiropractor does, how chiropractors are trained, how a DC differs from an MD or DO, and how chiropractic care may fit into your overall approach to health and movement.

What Is a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a licensed healthcare professional who focuses primarily on the musculoskeletal system, including the spine, joints, muscles, and related structures.

Think of it this way: if pain or stiffness is making it harder to bend, turn, walk, exercise, or simply get through your day comfortably, a chiropractor may evaluate how your joints and movement are functioning and determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate.

Depending on the patient's needs and the provider's scope of practice, chiropractic care may involve:

• Chiropractic adjustments

• Joint mobilization

• Soft-tissue techniques

• Mobility exercises

• Stretching and strengthening

• Posture guidance

• Movement education

• Personalized treatment plans

  
  

The goal isn't simply to treat a painful area. A good evaluation looks at the person as a whole and considers symptoms, movement, lifestyle, previous injuries, and individual goals.

Is a Chiropractor a Doctor?

Yes. A licensed chiropractor who has completed the required professional education is a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC).

However, “doctor” doesn't always mean “medical doctor.” Different healthcare professionals can earn different doctoral degrees.

For example:

• DC — Doctor of Chiropractic

• MD — Doctor of Medicine

• DO — Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

  
  

Each is a different professional credential with its own education, training, licensing requirements, and scope of practice.

So if you've ever wondered, “Are chiropractors real doctors?”, the answer is yes—but their professional degree is different from that of a medical physician.

Is a Chiropractor a Medical Doctor?

No. A chiropractor generally does not earn an MD or DO degree.

Medical doctors attend medical school and typically complete residency training before practicing independently. Chiropractors follow a separate educational pathway that leads to a Doctor of Chiropractic degree.

There is some overlap in foundational subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and other health sciences, but chiropractic education has a particular focus on chiropractic practice and the musculoskeletal system.

This distinction doesn't mean one profession is automatically better than the other. It simply means they are different types of healthcare professionals.

Knowing that difference can help you decide where to start when you're looking for care.

What Does a Chiropractor Do?

A chiropractic appointment involves much more than simply getting an adjustment.

Before recommending treatment, a chiropractor may ask about your symptoms, previous injuries, daily activities, work habits, exercise routine, and health history.

They may also assess:

• Posture

• Range of motion

• Joint movement

• Muscle function

• Movement patterns

• Areas of discomfort or restricted movement

  
  

Once the chiropractor understands the situation, they can explain their findings and discuss appropriate treatment options.

Depending on the patient, care may include an adjustment, soft-tissue therapy, mobility work, rehabilitation exercises, or posture recommendations.

The important part is individualization. Your treatment should make sense for your condition and goals—not simply follow a routine used for everyone.

How Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Work?

A chiropractic adjustment is one of the most recognized forms of chiropractic care.

During an adjustment, a chiropractor applies a controlled force to a specific joint. The technique and amount of force can vary depending on the patient's needs.

When appropriate, an adjustment may help:

• Improve joint mobility

• Support normal movement

• Reduce muscle tension

• Improve physical function

• Make certain movements more comfortable

  
  

Some adjustments may produce a popping or clicking sound. This can occur when gases within a joint shift during the movement and is not the goal of the adjustment itself.

Not every patient needs the same type of adjustment. A chiropractor should first determine whether an adjustment is appropriate for you.

Common Chiropractic Treatments

Chiropractic care isn't limited to one technique. Depending on the patient's condition, a treatment plan may combine different approaches.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Controlled manual techniques may be used to improve joint movement and support normal function.

Joint Mobilization

Gentle, controlled movements can help improve range of motion and flexibility in certain joints.

Soft-Tissue Therapy

Hands-on techniques may be used to address muscle tightness and improve soft-tissue mobility.

Rehabilitation Exercises

Stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises can support recovery and help patients build better movement habits.

Posture Correction

Posture and movement education can help patients understand how they sit, stand, work, exercise, and move throughout the day.

The right combination depends on the individual's symptoms, lifestyle, health history, and goals.

What Conditions Can Chiropractic Care Help With?

Many people associate chiropractic care only with back pain, but chiropractic treatment can be used for a variety of musculoskeletal concerns.

People may seek care for:

• Lower back pain

• Neck pain

• Joint stiffness

• Muscle tension

• Mobility limitations

• Sports injuries

• Accident-related injuries

• Certain headaches

• Posture-related discomfort

  
  

Results and treatment needs vary from person to person. That's why a proper evaluation is an important first step.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care

People choose chiropractic care for different reasons. For some, it's about finding relief from discomfort. For others, it's about moving better and staying active.

Potential benefits of appropriate chiropractic care may include:

Better Mobility

Improving restricted joint movement may make everyday activities easier and more comfortable.

Support for Pain Management

Chiropractic care may be part of a conservative approach for certain musculoskeletal conditions.

Improved Movement

Movement-focused care can help patients work toward better flexibility, coordination, and physical function.

Support for an Active Lifestyle

Athletes and active individuals may seek chiropractic care as part of their recovery and movement routine.

Personalized Treatment

Instead of using the exact same approach for every person, treatment can be adapted to the patient's needs and goals.

How Do Chiropractors Become Doctors?

Becoming a chiropractor requires specialized professional education and clinical training.

Students generally complete prerequisite college education before entering a Doctor of Chiropractic program. Chiropractic education can include subjects

such as:

• Anatomy

• Physiology

• Biochemistry

• Pathology

• Neurology

• Biomechanics

• Diagnostic sciences

• Imaging

• Chiropractic techniques

• Patient assessment

• Clinical practice

  
  

Students also complete hands-on clinical training before meeting the requirements for professional licensure.

After graduation, chiropractors must satisfy the applicable licensing and examination requirements in the state where they practice.

Do Chiropractors Go to Medical School?

No. Chiropractors don't normally attend medical school to earn an MD or DO.

Instead, they complete a specialized chiropractic program leading to a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.

Medical school prepares physicians for broad medical practice, while chiropractic education prepares chiropractors for chiropractic practice and care within their professional scope.

That's why a DC and an MD should not be treated as interchangeable credentials.

DC vs. MD vs. DO: What's the Difference?

The easiest way to understand the difference is to look at the professional pathway.

Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)	Medical Doctor (MD)	Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
Chiropractic professional degree	Medical professional degree	Medical professional degree
Specialized chiropractic education	Medical school	Medical school
Focus commonly includes musculoskeletal and chiropractic care	Broad medical care	Broad medical care
Follows chiropractic licensing requirements	Follows physician licensing requirements	Follows physician licensing requirements
May use conservative chiropractic approaches	May use medications, procedures, or surgery depending on specialty	May use medications, procedures, or surgery depending on specialty

The key takeaway is simple: a DC is a doctor, but a DC is not the same type of doctor as an MD or DO.

Are Chiropractors Licensed?

Yes. Chiropractors must meet the education, examination, and licensing requirements established by the jurisdiction where they practice.

Licensing requirements can include completing an approved chiropractic education program, passing required examinations, obtaining a professional license, and completing continuing education.

Because scope-of-practice laws can vary from state to state, it's always a good idea to check a provider's credentials and understand the services they are licensed to provide.

What Happens During Your First Chiropractic Visit?

If you've never been to a chiropractor before, you may be wondering what the appointment will actually be like.

A first visit typically starts with a conversation.

Your chiropractor may ask about:

• What you're feeling

• When your symptoms started

• Previous injuries

• Your health history

• Work and daily activities

• Exercise habits

• What you want to accomplish through care

  
  

The chiropractor may then perform a physical assessment that looks at posture, range of motion, joint movement, and other relevant factors.

After the evaluation, your chiropractor can explain the findings and discuss whether chiropractic care is appropriate.

If another type of healthcare provider would be better suited to your condition, an appropriate referral may be recommended.

Is Chiropractic Care Right for You?

There isn't one treatment that's right for everyone.

You may want to consider speaking with a chiropractor if you're experiencing concerns such as:

• Frequent back discomfort

• Neck stiffness

• Limited mobility

• Joint discomfort

• Muscle tightness

• Sports-related injuries

• Certain accident-related musculoskeletal complaints

• Difficulty moving comfortably during everyday activities

  
  

However, symptoms such as severe or rapidly worsening pain, significant weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or major trauma require appropriate medical attention.

A qualified healthcare professional can help determine what type of care is appropriate for your situation.

Professional Chiropractic Care in Brandon, SD

If you're looking for a chiropractor in Brandon, SD, Fit For Life Chiropractic provides personalized care designed around each patient's needs, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.

Led by Dr. Cody Kruckenberg, DC, the clinic combines chiropractic techniques with movement-focused care to help patients work toward better mobility, function, recovery, and an active lifestyle.

Rather than assuming every patient needs the same treatment, the team focuses on understanding the individual first and then developing an appropriate care plan.

Services Offered

At Fit For Life Chiropractic, chiropractic care is designed to address different needs—from everyday back and neck discomfort to sports injuries and accident-related concerns.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments may help improve joint mobility and support more comfortable movement when appropriate for the patient.

Posture Correction

If sitting at a desk, working, or everyday habits are affecting how you move, posture-focused care can help you become more aware of your movement patterns.

Mobility & Flexibility Improvement

Limited mobility can make simple activities feel harder than they should. Mobility-focused care and exercises can help patients work toward greater flexibility and comfortable movement.

Back & Neck Pain Relief

Back and neck discomfort can affect sleep, work, exercise, and everyday life. Personalized chiropractic care may be used as part of a conservative approach to managing appropriate musculoskeletal conditions.

Sports Injury Rehabilitation

For active individuals and athletes, rehabilitation can focus on recovery, mobility, movement, and a gradual return to the activities they enjoy.

Auto Injury & Whiplash Treatment

After a motor vehicle accident, some people experience neck pain, stiffness, or other soft-tissue and musculoskeletal complaints. A proper evaluation can help determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate.

Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial release is a hands-on approach that may help address muscle tightness and support better soft-tissue mobility.

These services are tailored according to the patient's individual needs rather than applying the same treatment plan to everyone.

Areas Served

Fit For Life Chiropractic proudly provides chiropractic care for patients throughout:

• Brandon, SD

• Sioux Falls, SD

• Harrisburg, SD

• Tea, SD

• Baltic, SD

• Dell Rapids, SD

• Valley Springs, SD

• Garretson, SD

• Surrounding South Dakota communities

Book Your Appointment

If pain, stiffness, or limited movement is getting in the way of the things you enjoy, you don't have to ignore it and simply hope it goes away.

The team at Fit For Life Chiropractic takes the time to understand your concerns and develop personalized care around your needs and goals.

Fit For Life Chiropractic Location: Brandon, SD, United States  Phone: (605) 254-7735 Website: www.fitforlifesd.com

Ready to find out whether chiropractic care may be right for you?

Book an Appointment with Fit For Life Chiropractic and take the next step toward better movement and personalized care.

About the Author

Dr. Cody Kruckenberg, DC

Dr. Cody Kruckenberg, DC, is the founder and chiropractor at Fit For Life Chiropractic in Brandon, South Dakota. He is dedicated to providing patient-focused chiropractic care that helps individuals improve mobility, manage musculoskeletal concerns, recover from injuries, and stay active.

Dr. Kruckenberg's interest in chiropractic began during his wrestling career, where he experienced firsthand the importance of proper spinal health, movement, recovery, and physical performance.

After earning his undergraduate degree from Morningside College, he completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University.

Today, Dr. Kruckenberg focuses on individualized care that may combine chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises, movement-focused treatment, and patient education.

His goal is to help patients move better, recover with confidence, and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Chiropractor a Medical Doctor?

No. A chiropractor generally earns a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree rather than an MD or DO. However, a chiropractor is still a licensed healthcare professional and doctor within the chiropractic profession.

Are Chiropractors Doctors?

Yes. Chiropractors who complete the required professional education and licensing process are Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs).

Do Chiropractors Go to Medical School?

No. Chiropractors complete specialized chiropractic education rather than medical school.

What Is a Doctor of Chiropractic?

A Doctor of Chiropractic, or DC, is a professional degree earned after completing specialized chiropractic education and clinical training.

What Does a Chiropractor Do?

A chiropractor evaluates musculoskeletal concerns and may use chiropractic adjustments, mobility techniques, soft-tissue therapy, rehabilitation exercises, and movement education depending on the patient's needs.

Can a Chiropractor Help With Back Pain?

Chiropractic care may be appropriate for certain types of back pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. An individual evaluation can help determine whether chiropractic treatment is suitable for your symptoms.

What Should I Expect at My First Chiropractic Appointment?

Your first appointment may include a discussion of your symptoms and health history, a physical assessment, and a conversation about appropriate treatment options.

Is Chiropractic Care Only for People With Pain?

No. While many people seek chiropractic care because they're experiencing discomfort, others may seek care for mobility, movement, posture, recovery, or maintaining an active lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

So, is a chiropractor a medical doctor?

The answer is no—but a chiropractor can absolutely be a doctor.

A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) is a qualified healthcare professional who has completed specialized chiropractic education and clinical training. An MD or DO, on the other hand, is a medical physician who follows a medical education and residency pathway.

The most important thing isn't simply the title after a provider's name. It's understanding their training, credentials, scope of practice, and whether their approach matches your healthcare needs.

If you're searching for a doctor of chiropractic in Brandon, SD, or looking for a chiropractic center in Brandon, SD, Fit For Life Chiropractic offers personalized care focused on movement, mobility, recovery, and helping patients stay active.