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How Do I Become a Bonesetter?

Jennifer Leigh
Jennifer Leigh

Bonesetting is an ancient practice of manipulating injuries in the body. In order to become a bonesetter, it is necessary to find a practicing bonesetter to teach you. Since this practice generally occurs in rural and economically challenged parts of the world, if you wish to become a bonesetter, you will need to go to locations where it is still done regularly. In some countries, there are laws about licensure, so a career as a bonesetter would be difficult and might go by the name of something else. Certain personal characteristics are needed to become a bonesetter including honesty, responsibility, and an interest in helping others.

An individual can become a bonesetter by learning from an experienced bonesetter. These teachings are often passed down from generation to generation, so it might be difficult to find an experienced bonesetter to teach you. Bonesetters can be found in places such as India, Africa, and Asia, but have been located all over the world at different times in history. The best way to go about finding a practicing bonesetter is through word of mouth, as people in this profession do not generally advertise services in traditional places.

Some of the practices of bonesetters are done under other names such as chiropractic treatment.
Some of the practices of bonesetters are done under other names such as chiropractic treatment.

A bonesetter has to have knowledge of natural remedies for healing as well as the ability to manipulate the body with the hands. If you are good at working with your hands and have a sense of symmetry, you could become a bonesetter. Bonesetters are knowledgeable about salves that can help treat wounds, sprains, and broken bones. In addition, broken bones are often set with splints and wrapped in order to heal properly.

Modern medicine may use bone screws and metal plates instead of bonesetting.
Modern medicine may use bone screws and metal plates instead of bonesetting.

In countries such as the US, it is not legal to practice bonesetting in the traditional sense. Individuals who practice techniques such as these have to attend school and become licensed in order to manipulate the body. Some of the practices of bonesetters are done under other names such as chiropractic treatment, osteopathy, and acupuncture.

You need to have the desire to help others to become a bonesetter, as you will be working with people who greatly need help. It is important to be honest because patients need to be able to trust you with their care. A responsible bonesetter will refer an individual to a physician or surgeon if an injury is more than he or she can handle.

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    • Some of the practices of bonesetters are done under other names such as chiropractic treatment.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Some of the practices of bonesetters are done under other names such as chiropractic treatment.
    • Modern medicine may use bone screws and metal plates instead of bonesetting.
      By: stockdevil
      Modern medicine may use bone screws and metal plates instead of bonesetting.