On the surface, the professions of chiropractors and physiotherapists (also called physical therapists) may seem similar. Both focus on dispelling pain after an injury or procedure. Other similarities include:
- Exercises meant to improve the strength and range of motion could be prescribed by both
- Physical modalities like heat, cool, or electricity are used by both
- Both prioritize nonsurgical techniques
- Since 2005, both have needed to be trained at a doctorate level with a required board or licensing examination to practice
The Difference Between Chiropractors and Physiotherapists
The difference between chiropractors and physical therapists is in the dissimilar techniques and treatment paradigms they employ to help patients move in pain-free ways. These differences are as follows:
- Chiropractors get hands-on with the spine, performing manipulations for suspected or identified spinal subluxations. A physical therapist works to prevent an injury before it happens.
- Chiropractors focus their efforts on the lower back spine, correcting misalignment to relieve pressure from nerves. Physical therapists, on the other hand, are more general practitioners, treating not just the spine but every individual area of the body.
- It’s common for chiropractors to order an X-ray, using that information to examine and diagnose the skeletal system and guide treatment. Most physical therapists don’t rely on diagnostic imaging, instead relying on their clinical examination to guide treatment
- Chiropractors frequently offer additional services and products like nutrition advice and dietary supplements in their clinics, while physical therapists do not.
- Many chiropractic treatments only take place in the clinic with no take-home exercises. Physical therapy focuses much of its efforts as a field on prescribing exercise programs that will help patients achieve their rehab goal.
- Chiropractors typically work in an outpatient clinic setting exclusively. On the other hand, physical therapists can be found in a litany of settings, including clinics, nursing homes, schools, and hospitals.
When to Go to a Chiropractor or a Physical Therapist
How do you know which of the medical professionals to choose? If you’re experiencing acute back or neck pain, then a chiropractor may be best. They’ll assess your condition and increase your mobility by providing a spinal adjustment. If you were to go to a physical therapist for the same issue, they’d also assess acute spinal problems and treat them, but the treatment would be different. It might focus on exercises designed to improve range of motion and strength over time.
Both medical professionals will be able to offer guidance to keep pain absent from the body and prevent future issues. If you have further questions about chiropractic care or physiotherapy, contact the experts at Crossroads Chiropractic. Get in touch today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors.
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