Chiropractic vs. Orthopedic Surgeons: Key Differences in Care, Training & Approaches

The healthcare field offers diverse and dynamic career options, especially for those interested in the musculoskeletal system. Two prominent specialties—chiropractic care and orthopedic surgery—focus on helping patients overcome pain and restore mobility. But while they share a common mission, their training, treatment methods, and philosophies differ significantly.

If you're a pre-med, pre-health, or aspiring healthcare professional, understanding these distinctions can help you clarify your career path. Whether you're exploring global health through a pre-med shadowing study abroad program or navigating your route into medical school, this guide will help you evaluate whether a career in chiropractic or orthopedic medicine is the right fit.

Chiropractic vs. Orthopedic Surgeons: At a Glance

Both professions address conditions related to the spine, joints, bones, and muscles—but their approaches vary. Chiropractors emphasize non-invasive, manual therapies, while orthopedic surgeons combine non-surgical and surgical treatments, often requiring complex procedures.

Let’s break it down:

What Do Chiropractors Do?

Chiropractors are healthcare providers who focus on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, primarily through spinal adjustments and manual manipulation. Their care philosophy is holistic, aiming to restore proper alignment of the body to promote self-healing without medication or surgery.

Common Conditions Treated:

• Back and neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Joint issues (shoulders, hips, knees)
• Sciatica
• Sports and posture-related injuries

Chiropractors emphasize preventive care, patient education, and lifestyle modification, often incorporating exercise, nutrition, and ergonomics into treatment plans.

Educational Path:

• 4-year undergraduate degree (often in biology or health sciences)
• 4-year Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program
• Optional postgraduate specialization (e.g., sports chiropractic)

To explore how international experiences can enrich your chiropractic aspirations, consider joining a pre-health internship abroad with Go Elective in Kenya or Tanzania.

What Do Orthopedic Surgeons Do?

Orthopedic surgeons are medical doctors who diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, including acute injuries, chronic conditions, and congenital deformities. They’re trained to provide both non-surgical and surgical interventions, from prescribing physical therapy to performing complex surgeries like joint replacements or spinal fusions.

Common Conditions Treated:

• Fractures and dislocations
• Torn ligaments and tendons
• Arthritis and osteoporosis
• Scoliosis and other spinal deformities
• Sports injuries

Orthopedic surgeons may sub-specialize in areas such as trauma, pediatrics, sports medicine, or oncology.

Educational Path:

• 4-year undergraduate degree
• 4 years of medical school (MD or DO)
• 5-year orthopedic surgery residenc
• Optional fellowship (1–2 years) for sub-specialization

To gain early exposure to surgical specialties like orthopedics, explore Go Elective’s medical shadowing programs abroad and experience real-world medicine in East Africa’s leading hospitals.

 
Chiropractors vs Orthopedic Surgeons: Key Differences

Choosing the Right Career Path: What to Consider

When deciding between chiropractic and orthopedic medicine, think about your personal interests, values, and the kind of impact you want to make.

Choose Chiropractic if you:

• Prefer hands-on, holistic care
• Want to avoid surgery and pharmaceuticals
• Are interested in wellness, prevention, and lifestyle medicine

Want to enter clinical practice sooner.

Choose Orthopedic Surgery if you:

• Are drawn to complex problem-solving and procedural interventions
• Want the option to perform surgeries
• Aspire to specialize in trauma, sports medicine, or pediatric care
• Are prepared for a longer, rigorous training process

Get Hands-On Experience Through Go Elective

If you’re still deciding—or want to strengthen your medical school application—Go Elective’s pre-med and pre-health internships abroad are a powerful way to gain exposure.

You'll:

• Shadow orthopedic surgeons and other specialists in real hospital settings
• Participate in community outreach and public health education
• Learn about global healthcare systems and disparitie
• Enhance your clinical, cultural, and ethical understanding

Programs are available in Kenya and Tanzania, lasting from 1 to 8 weeks, with opportunities for high school, undergraduate, and graduate-level students.

Support Your Journey with Medical School Admissions Consulting

Applying to medical school—especially for surgical specialties—can be overwhelming. Our admissions consulting team provides personalized support to help you:

• Strategize your school list based on goals and competitiveness
• Build a compelling personal statement and application
• Prepare for interviews and highlight relevant experiences
• Leverage shadowing, volunteering, and gap year opportunities

Whether you're leaning toward orthopedics, chiropractic care, or still exploring your path, Go Elective can help shape your future in healthcare.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between chiropractors and orthopedic surgeons can empower you to make informed decisions—both as a future provider and as a patient. Each career offers a unique approach to healing, and both are essential pillars of musculoskeletal care.

Ready to explore your options firsthand? Start your healthcare journey with Go Elective and gain experience that sets you apart on your path to a fulfilling medical career.

Article Details

Categories

Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: May 8, 2025