Modern chiropractors owe much to the tireless work of chiropractic associations. In fact, without the efforts of chiropractic associations over the profession’s storied history, it is likely the profession would not have survived and thrived as it has. Historically, many chiropractic associations were formed out of a necessity to define chiropractic principles, defend chiropractors’ rights to practice and fight for advancement of the chiropractic profession.

Today, that still holds true, though the scope and focus of chiropractic associations have opened up to allow for the creation of specialty groups serving a variety of needs. If anything, today’s chiropractors might feel a bit overwhelmed trying to sift through the many organizations vying for their time, talents and funds. Let this serve as a primer to start the thought process.

State Chiropractic Associations

Starting at the local level with a chiropractic association makes good sense and is recommended for practicing chiropractors. State chiropractic associations often represent the first line of defense to maintain and promote chiropractic friendly legislations and requirements within a chiropractor’s practicing state(s). State chiropractic associations also can help chiropractors stay informed on continuing education credit guideline changes and provide opportunities for completion of credit hours. Lastly, they are a vital source of networking with chiropractic professionals in your area.

State Associations in Georgia and others to consider:

National Chiropractic Associations

For a broader understanding and impact on the expansion of Chiropractic, joining a national chiropractic association is just good business sense and an excellent way to give back to the profession. Some of these organizations are focused on particular areas such as chiropractic education, chiropractic examination or other considerations. Here is an overview of a few national organizations that are very active and connected with Life University (Life U):

International Chiropractors Association (ICA)– “Established in 1926 in Davenport, Iowa, USA by Dr. B.J. Palmer, the ICA is the world’s oldest international chiropractic professional organization representing practitioners, students, chiropractic assistants, educators and lay persons globally,” states the ICA site.

International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA)- Founded by Dr. Larry Webster, the ICPA is 9,000+ members strong, focused on providing specialized training and community for pediatric and perinatal chiropractors.

American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA)- ABCA serves to empower African American chiropractic students and practicing chiropractors, as well as educate the African American community at large about the benefits of chiropractic care.

Index of Chiropractic Literature National Chiropractic Associations Listing

Opportunities for Chiropractic Students to get Involved

Many of the prestigious chiropractic associations listed here have student collegiate chapters that D.C. students can get involved in. Life U is proud to support and contribute to many chiropractic associations, in addition to offering student chapters on campus, such as ICPA, Student International Chiropractic Association (SICA) and Student American Black Chiropractic Association (SABCA). Many chiropractic associations offer significantly discounted student membership fees as well, so it is a great deal for students to take advantage of while they are in school.