Chiropractic Facts & Figures: Why More People Are Choosing Natural Care

As more studies highlight the effectiveness of chiropractic care, patients across the U.S. are turning to this natural, non-invasive approach in record numbers. Chiropractic offers a drug-free and surgery-free solution for pain relief and overall wellness, making it one of the fastest-growing health care options today.

Here are some eye-opening facts about chiropractic care and why it’s becoming a trusted choice for millions:

Chiropractic Care at a Glance

• #1 in Alternative Medicine: Chiropractic is the largest, most regulated, and best-recognized profession within complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to the Annals of Internal Medicine.
• Widespread Recognition: Chiropractic is officially recognized as a health care profession in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with over 60,000 licensed chiropractors actively practicing in the U.S.
• Popular Among Americans: In 2002, 7.4% of U.S. adults chose chiropractic care—more than yoga, acupuncture, massage, or diet-based therapies. (Altern Ther Health Med., 2005)
• Extensive Training: Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) complete at least four years of specialized education at one of 16 accredited chiropractic colleges. Before practicing, chiropractors must pass national board exams and obtain state licensure.
• Preferred for Back & Neck Pain: Surveys show that patients consistently prefer chiropractic care over traditional medical care when it comes to back and neck pain. Chiropractors are highly rated by their patients for skill, communication, and bedside manner.
• Integrated in Health Systems: Chiropractors now provide care in hospitals, integrative health clinics, and multidisciplinary facilities alongside medical doctors and other providers.
• Third Largest Doctoral Profession: Chiropractic is the third largest doctoral-level health profession in the U.S., following only medicine and dentistry.

The Back Pain Epidemic

• Back Pain: A Common Complaint: Back pain ranks as the second leading cause of all physician visits in the U.S.
• A Widespread Issue: Nearly 50% of working Americans report experiencing back pain annually.
• Chiropractic for Back Pain: According to the American Chiropractic Association, 43% of chiropractic patients seek care specifically for low-back pain.

Chiropractic care continues to grow in popularity as patients seek safer, natural alternatives for pain relief and whole-body wellness. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain or simply want to maintain optimal health, chiropractic offers a time-tested solution that millions trust.