Can I get Acupuncture from a Chiropractor?

Yes, it is possible to get acupuncture from a chiropractor. Many chiropractors specialize in more than just one practice or therapy, and acupuncture is a common additional service. Just as you want chiropractic services from a licensed chiropractor, you also want acupuncture services from a licensed acupuncturist. Therefore, to get safe and effective acupuncture from a chiropractor, you need to seek a specialist who is licensed in both chiropractics and acupuncture. You can find such a specialist by seeking recommendations as well as checking that the professional is properly licensed in both therapies.

Since many chiropractors provide more therapies than just chiropractic services, finding one who also specializes in acupuncture is not as challenging as it might sound. You just need to make sure the professional you choose meets your region’s standards for both chiropractic and acupuncture therapies. For example, the United States Department of Labor reports chiropractors in America must successfully complete training from a four-year chiropractic college. There are also as many as 48 accredited schools that teach traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including acupuncture, in the United States. Check with your government’s department of labor, or equivalent, for the training and certification requirements for chiropractors and acupuncturists and match those requirements with the professional you’re considering.

Once you know what kinds of qualifications chiropractors and acupuncturists in your area must have, you can start searching for a chiropractor who is also an acupuncturist. If you already see a chiropractor, ask him if he is also qualified to provide acupuncture services. If he is not, he might refer you to a colleague who is licensed to provide both services. You can ask your general practitioner, spine specialist, or even your massage therapist for referrals to chiropractors who also offer acupuncture therapies. Any family members, friends, or co-workers you know who have received acupuncture from a chiropractor can offer recommendations.

If there is no one to provide recommendations, consider checking your local listings or conducting an Internet search for chiropractic and acupuncture services in your area. Make a list of those professionals who sound promising, then call them to ask whether they specialize in just one, or both, of the therapies. You might even find an alternative therapy wellness center that offers acupuncture from a chiropractor. At the least, you might find a wellness center that employees several different alternative therapy professionals, including a chiropractor and an acupuncturist.