Protect yourself from unqualified practitioners
Unfortunately, the title "chiropractor" may be used by individuals who have not completed recognised chiropractic training.
Spinal manipulation and other manual techniques can have risks when performed inappropriately or by an inadequately trained person. Do not assume that someone offering chiropractic treatment is a qualified chiropractor. Before treatment, check their professional registration and current licence.
Ask these questions before you book
- Is the chiropractor professionally qualified? Ask where they completed their chiropractic education and what qualification they hold.
- Are they registered with AHPC? Ask for their registration details and verify them through the official AHPC system.
- Do they have a current practising licence? A practitioner may have been registered previously but not currently hold a valid practising licence.
- Are they working within their professional scope? A responsible chiropractor recognises conditions that require medical investigation, referral or co-management.
- Are they willing to explain your treatment? You should receive clear information about your assessment, treatment options, expected benefits and potential risks.
Why training matters
All registered chiropractors practising in Uganda completed their professional education outside Uganda — to date there is no formal chiropractic training in Uganda. That education covers anatomy and physiology, neurology, musculoskeletal diagnosis, pathology and differential diagnosis, radiology, manual therapy technique, rehabilitation and professional ethics, alongside supervised clinical experience.
It is that training which allows a chiropractor to recognise when a symptom is not a musculoskeletal problem, and to refer you on rather than treat you.
You should never feel pressured into treatment. You have the right to understand your proposed treatment and give informed consent.
When choosing chiropractic care
Qualified + Registered + Licensed = Safer professional care.
Find a registered chiropractor associated with the Chiropractic Association of Uganda.