52 Introduction to Medical Terminology
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Careers to Consider
If you pursue any of the following careers, you will interact on a regular basis with patients who have
conditions or diseases of the skeletal system. For more detailed information on the career opportunities
discussed on this page, visit the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Chiropractor
Chiropractors treat illness and injury of the neu-
romusculoskeletal system, which includes nerves,
muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These specialists
treat patients primarily by manual manipulation
or adjustment of parts of the body, especially the
spinal column. They may use X-rays to help locate
the source of a patient’s health problem.
Chiropractors may combine manipulative
therapy techniques with adjunctive therapies
such as acupuncture and ultrasound. They also
recommend dietary modifi cations, supportive
devices, and exercises designed to improve physi-
cal health. They do not prescribe drugs or surgery,
but refer patients to other healthcare professionals
when necessary.
Chiropractors must hold a Doctor of Chiroprac-
tic (DC) degree and a state license. A Doctor of
Chiropractic program generally takes four years
to complete. Most chiropractors work indepen-
dently or in a group practice.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists (PTs)
work with a patient’s doc-
tor to develop a plan for
restoring and maintaining
the patient’s maximum
movement and functional
ability. They use specifi c
exercises, manual manip-
ulation, and other physi-
cal therapy interventions,
and they educate patients
about ways to improve
their mobility and manage
their pain. PTs also work with individuals to pre-
vent loss of mobility by developing customized
fi tness- and wellness-oriented programs.
Physical therapists are required to hold a
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and a
license in their state of practice. PTs typically are
employed in private offi ces, hospitals, clinics,
nursing homes, and rehabilitative centers.
Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedics (or-thoh-PEE-diks) is a branch of
medicine focused on treating or correcting mus-
culoskeletal conditions, including spine and joint
injuries or deformities. Orthopedic surgeons are
physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and
treatment of spinal disorders, sports injuries,
arthritis, and fractures. Orthopedic surgeons must
hold a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteo-
pathic Medicine (DO) degree.
Prosthetist
A prosthetist (PRAHS-thuh-tist) is a person who
measures, designs, fabricates, fi ts, and services a
prosthesis (prahs-THEE-sis), or artifi cial limb. A
prosthesis is prescribed by a licensed physician for
the replacement of an extremity due to amputa-
tion, congenital deformity, or absence. A prosthetist
must have at least a master’s degree and complete
a one-year residency to obtain certifi cation.
Radiologic Technologist
Radiologic technologists perform diagnos-
tic imaging (X-rays) of the body for diagnosis or
treatment of health conditions. They may fi nd
employment in hospitals, doctors’ offi ces, or can-
cer treatment centers. A radiologic technologist
typically holds an associate’s degree. Some states
require licensing or certifi cation.