Have you ever wondered what exactly is the difference between an osteopath, a chiropractor and a physiotherapist? Are they really just different names for the same thing?
You wouldn’t be alone. It’s among the most common questions I get asked by patients. The three professions certainly cover similar areas of treatment, but each is distinct.
Osteopaths
Osteopathy is a complementary medicine defined by the NHS Choices website as “a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems by moving through manipulation, stretching and massaging a person’s muscles and joints.” It’s founded on the belief that this affects the general condition of the body.
Osteopaths are most commonly associated with treating back pain, but in fact their scope is far wider than that. Besides a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, osteopathy has also been associated with easing issues from asthma to digestive problems. An osteopath may also offer exercises, advice and education to help prevent problems returning.
Chiropractors
Chiropractic, also a complementary medicine, is concerned with the bones and muscles. Chiropractors use their hands to manipulate these in order to treat disorders and ease their effects on the nervous system and the body’s general health.
The principal techniques chiropractors use involve are manual therapies aimed at easing these disorders. Like osteopaths, though, they may also offer a programme of exercises, as well as advice on diet and lifestyle.
Physiotherapists
Physiotherapy (often known as physio) is a mainstream medical practice which uses techniques such as massage and manipulation to promote healing and wellbeing. It’s especially used following an injury or a disorder, as well as helping patients manage chronic conditions.
Besides treating issues affecting the muscles, joints and cardiovascular system (like osteopaths and chiropractors), physiotherapists may also address anything from mental health issues to long-term illness. Besides the massage and manipulation, they use a variety of techniques, including heat, cold, electric current, light and water.
Which Is Best to Use?
All three professions can be effective, and they overlap quite a bit (especially where musculoskeletal injury is concerned), although each has areas where it’s strongest. For instance, a physiotherapist might be ideal if you’re recovering from injury, whereas pains affecting your general well-being would especially suit an osteopath.
On the other hand, the most important factor is to find a therapist you’re comfortable with. Studies have shown the therapeutic relationship between the patient and the practitioner as a major factor in determining whether or not the therapy will be successful. So perhaps the best advice would be to choose the therapist you feel happiest with, whatever name they use.
You’re very welcome to give me a call if you want to know more about the options.