Which item is explicitly excluded from the practice of chiropractic?

Which item is explicitly excluded from the practice of chiropractic?

• A. The prescription of controlled substances
• B. Nonsurgical, nonincisive procedures including adjustment
• C. The use of x-ray therapy
• D. Patient education and counseling

Answer: (A)

The main concept is the scope of chiropractic practice in terms of what chiropractors are allowed to do versus what they cannot do. In Texas, chiropractors are permitted to perform nonsurgical adjustments and other noninvasive therapies, use diagnostic tools like imaging for evaluation, and provide patient education and counseling. However, they are not authorized to prescribe medications, especially controlled substances. The authority to prescribe drugs rests with physicians and other prescribers, and chiropractors must refer patients who need pharmacologic treatment to the appropriate medical professional. This separation is why prescribing controlled substances is the item explicitly excluded from the practice of chiropractic. The other listed activities fall within the typical chiropractic scope when performed within proper licensure.

The main concept is the scope of chiropractic practice in terms of what chiropractors are allowed to do versus what they cannot do. In Texas, chiropractors are permitted to perform nonsurgical adjustments and other noninvasive therapies, use diagnostic tools like imaging for evaluation, and provide patient education and counseling. However, they are not authorized to prescribe medications, especially controlled substances. The authority to prescribe drugs rests with physicians and other prescribers, and chiropractors must refer patients who need pharmacologic treatment to the appropriate medical professional. This separation is why prescribing controlled substances is the item explicitly excluded from the practice of chiropractic. The other listed activities fall within the typical chiropractic scope when performed within proper licensure.