Looking to break away from the traditional 9-to-5 clinic model? Want to explore new locations, gain experience, and maintain flexibility in your chiropractic career?
If so, locum tenens chiropractic work could be exactly what you're looking for.
Whether you're a new graduate unsure of your long-term direction or a seasoned DC seeking change, working as a locum can offer freedom, income, and adventure all without long-term commitment.
What Is Locum Tenens?
“Locum tenens” is Latin for “to hold the place of.” In chiropractic, it refers to temporary positions where you fill in for another chiropractor due to:
- Maternity or paternity leave
- Vacation or sabbatical
- Unexpected illness
- Staffing transitions
- Coverage during clinic expansion
You may work for a few days, weeks, or even several months depending on the assignment.
Benefits of Working Locum Tenens as a Chiropractor
✅ Flexibility
One of the biggest perks of locum tenens is control over your schedule. You can:
- Accept jobs that fit your calendar
- Take breaks between assignments
- Avoid burnout by switching up your environment
Perfect for chiropractors seeking work-life balance or juggling other commitments (like further education or family care).
✅ Travel Opportunities
Love the idea of working in different cities or states? Locum work allows you to:
- Explore new regions
- Test out cities before relocating
- Deduct travel expenses (consult your accountant!)
It’s a great way to blend adventure with income.
✅ Diverse Experience
Locum work exposes you to:
- Different clinic systems and patient populations
- New adjusting techniques and documentation styles
- A wide range of practice models (cash-based, insurance, high-volume, boutique)
This makes it especially valuable for new grads or those exploring specialty niches.
✅ No Long-Term Commitment
Not ready to commit to a permanent job? Locum roles let you:
- Stay active in practice
- Keep income flowing
- Avoid getting locked into a role that doesn’t align with your goals
Who Should Consider Locum Tenens Work?
New Graduates
If you're unsure what type of clinic you want to join or are waiting for your license to finalize in a specific state, locum work offers real-world experience with flexibility.
Chiropractors in Transition
If you’ve recently:
- Moved to a new city
- Closed your own clinic
- Left a long-term associate job
…a locum role can provide stability while you plan your next steps.
Chiropractors Who Love Variety
Some chiropractors choose to build an entire career out of locum tenens work. They enjoy:
- New challenges
- Travel and networking
- A low-pressure, independent schedule
How to Find Locum Tenens Chiropractic Jobs
Locum jobs are often unlisted or filled through referrals, but there are still effective ways to land them:
Use ChiroJobs.com to:
- Filter job searches by term length or temporary coverage
- Search by state, city, or zip code
- Set up alerts for new locum postings
Other Tips:
- Let recruiters or former classmates know you're open to short-term work
- Post in chiropractic Facebook and LinkedIn groups
- Network at CE seminars or alumni events
- Reach out directly to clinics when you see “Doctor on Leave” signage or online posts
Many clinics prefer to keep their doors open during staff absences — and are thrilled to bring on a qualified locum who can jump in quickly.
What to Ask Before Accepting a Locum Position
Before saying yes to an assignment, clarify:
- Length of coverage (exact start/end dates)
- Adjusting techniques preferred by the clinic
- Software used for documentation
- Malpractice insurance responsibility
- Payment structure (hourly, per-day, or per-patient)
Also, ask for a brief training or orientation period, especially for longer assignments.
Final Thoughts
Locum tenens work isn’t just for in-between moments it can be a strategic and sustainable career choice.
Whether you're building clinical confidence, exploring the country, or simply craving more freedom, this flexible model allows you to:
- Earn a living
- Grow your skills
- Avoid long-term commitments
- Design a career that fits your life
Ready to explore chiropractic locum jobs?
Use ChiroJobs.com to search by region, set job alerts, and start your journey toward a more flexible chiropractic future.