What Is The Difference Between An Osteopath, Physiotherapist and Chiropractor?
The differences between the different professions are not as pronounced as what they used to be, with a lot of techniques and knowledge being shared amongst all three.
As such our discussion today looking at how the professions traditionally differ in philosophy and treatment will be of a very general nature.
Chiropractors generally think that if the spine is stiff or a joint is tight it may be compressing a nerve, disrupting the neurological signal to a muscle or organ. By correcting this subluxation you will restore correct nerve function and restore functionality to the structure. This is why traditionally the chiropractors emphasis has been on the manipulation or adjustment.
Physiotherapy on the other hand developed fairly recently out of the medical profession and is used in hospitals and private practice. Perhaps because of this a physiotherapist may have a slightly reductionist view with regard to pain, focusing mainly on the symptomatic area. Physiotherapists have a strong emphasis on rehabilitation and can be very specialised in areas such as cardiac or pulmonary rehabilitation.
Osteopaths generally find that a disruption or injury can occur in the body which may lead to an injury or pain elsewhere. A problem in the knee will change how you are walking which may cause pain in the hip. This can have a flow on effect causing pain in the lumbar spine which may tract all the way up to the neck causing headaches. Without addressing the underlying issues in the back, the hip and knee, the headaches are likely to re-occur. That is why Osteopaths will look more globally at the body.
Traditionally the emphasis of chiropractic treatment has been to address the subluxation which is why chiropractic visits are generally shorter, as these techniques are quick to perform.
A Physiotherapist will generally not be as hands on as an Osteopath and may use equipment such as a Tens machine, Ultrasound or heat packs. After assessment an exercise prescription will be used to address imbalances and restore function to your body.
Osteopaths will use manual techniques such as massage, articulation and stretching to release tension in muscles and joints before performing mobilisations. As pain decreases and function improves, exercise prescription will be used to address muscular imbalances and strengthen appropriate areas.
As I stated earlier, there are now a lot of technique sharing which occurs and the professions are not as distinct as they once were. Rather than focusing on which profession is more effective or the 'right one', focus on which practitioner is the most effective for you, regardless of the discipline. Find what works the best for you.
That concludes my very brief and general discussion concerning the differences between Osteopathy, Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. If you have any further questions please get in contact.
Chris