Education, Philosophy and Experience

Your Northwestern chiropractic education is hands-on from day one. Beginning in the first trimester, we emphasize learning chiropractic techniques so you have time to develop your skills.

With a rich and interesting history, the chiropractic profession and the doctors who practice this art and science have a unique view of health and disease and important perspectives that are reflected in the philosophy of the College of Chiropractic.

One meaning of philosophy is the love or pursuit of wisdom. Philosophy is not something that is taught or learned in any one particular course, lecture or laboratory. Rather, it is a process that evolves in unique ways for each individual.

We will provide a stimulating environment for thought, observation and experiences through which you will develop your philosophy of health care based upon strong chiropractic principles.

A fundamental principle embodied in the philosophy of chiropractic is the influence of the nervous system on the innate ability of the human body to be self-regulating and self-healing. This is reflected in the emphasis we place on the neuromusculoskeletal system and attention to the subluxation complex through the use of manual adjustment and manipulative and ancillary procedures.

We recognize the interconnections between body, mind, and spirit and the reality that the care we provide must be patient-centered and focuses on the whole person.

Our model of healthcare also embraces a responsibility to respond to both the patient’s clinical problems and the promotion of optimal health.

As you pursue your professional education you will experience our philosophy that is the Doctors of Chiropractic:

• Are neuromusculoskeletal specialists who employ hands-on clinical case management
• Are primary care providers who conduct comprehensive patient evaluations
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals for optimal patient care
• Can treat patients without the need for a referral
• Promote disease prevention and wellness by treating the whole person
• Embrace emerging evidence while respecting the profession’s historical foundation

As a student, you will experience another philosophical principle that guides much of what we do. Simply stated, it’s the value we place on critical thinking and an openness to different ways of viewing health and disease – and the practice of chiropractic.