Osteopaths, Physiotherapists and Chiropractors: What’s The Difference?

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While a doctor can offer many forms of treatment, there are times when other healthcare professionals may be recommended. Osteopaths, physiotherapists and chiropractors are all healthcare professionals that can offer alternative treatment. But what is the difference between them all? And which one is best suited to your needs?

This post takes a look into some of the similarities and differences between the three professions, and when to book an appointment with each one.

What is an osteopath?

Osteopaths specialise in providing manual techniques using the hands to treat a wide range of health issues. This includes soft tissue massages, articulation of joints, stretching, spinal manipulation and visceral manipulation (which can involve gentle movement of organs).

An osteopath’s treatment is focused on the entire body from the muscles and joints to the organs and nervous system. This can include the relationship between different parts of the body. A few common conditions that osteopaths can help treat include arthritis, sciatica, tennis elbow, TMJ, migraines, constipation, hip pain and postural problems.

If you have any of these conditions, it could be worth looking into osteopathic consultancy. By talking to an osteopath, you can determine if they have the means to help treat your health issue. 

What is a physiotherapist?

Physiotherapists specialise in restoring movement and function to those who have developed debilitating injuries or health conditions. Some of the techniques they use may overlap with those used by osteopaths such as massages of tissue and stretching. However, physiotherapists are also trained to teach various exercises focused on rehabilitation. Some may also be qualified to provide treatments like electrotherapy or laser therapy, as well as even offering nutritional advice in some cases. 

Your average physiotherapist is likely to be less qualified to treat certain health issues like digestive problems and migraines, but may have more knowledge when it comes to sports injuries and respiratory conditions. Some of the common conditions that physiotherapists help people manage and recover from include arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, stroke, parkinson’s, whiplash, amputations, COPD and fractures. 

The best way to determine whether a physiotherapist is right for you could be to book a consultation and see what they recommend. Most physiotherapists will be honest if a health problem falls outside their area of expertise. 

What is a chiropractor?

Chiropractors primarily focus on treating issues affecting the musculoskeletal system. This includes many manual techniques used by osteopaths such as massages, stretches and spinal manipulation. Perhaps the most unique treatment they offer is spinal adjustments, which involves using the hands to provide a short thrust of pressure to joints in the spine to offer relief. This may also involve the use of equipment to help with adjustments. 

A chiropractor generally won’t be able to treat digestive issues, lung issues or circulatory issues unless they are somehow connected to muscular or skeletal issues. However, they do tend to have a more in-depth knowledge of joint issues – particularly related to the spine. Conditions that chiropractors regularly help to treat include sciatica, lower back pain, neck pain and jaw pain.

Think you may benefit from seeing a chiropractor? Such professionals will be able to tell you if their work is likely to be of benefit to you.