Chiropractor vs. Physiotherapist

Quick question: do you know the difference between a chiropractor and a physiotherapist? Each of these professionals are trained to help manage and relieve pain, but other than that, what is the difference? Read on to discover more about chiropractors, physiotherapists, what they do and who is best to help you in a variety of situations.

Chiropractor

If you seek chiropractic care for your pain, expect for your spine to come into play during treatment. The basic philosophy of chiropractors is that the spine and its alignment is primarily responsible for the overall well-being of your body’s nervous system. Chiropractic alignment, a practice consisting of the application of gentle force to a vertebrae or joint whose movement has been restricted, is designed to improve your range of motion so the pain dissipates. The amount of chiropractic sessions varies from one individual to the next, as chiropractic treatment is highly personalized and subjective to an individual’s ability to recover.

Physiotherapist

Massage, stretching, and rehabilitative exercises are the cornerstones of physiotherapy. After an accident or injury, a physiotherapist will be recommended to help manage pain and strengthen the injured part of the body. Physiotherapists can help patients regain mobility after an accident, and can be quite helpful with pain management techniques. A session with a physiotherapist is similar to going to a personal trainer at the gym- you will be expected to work hard to recover the mobility you lost in your accident.

Though there is a lot of overlap between the two professions, a chiropractor will typically use manipulation whereas a physiotherapist will use mobilization methods such as light and heat therapy, as well as electrical therapy and exercise to restore movement in your body.

Which do I choose?

If you are having a hard time figuring out whether a chiropractor or a physiotherapist is right for you, visit your general health practitioner for a check-up and see what he or she recommends. You may also contact Family Chiropractic Care today for a free consultation, during which we can determine if physiotherapy or chiropractic care is good for you. We welcome all patients in Kelso, WA and surrounding areas, and care about you and your family’s health and well-being. Regardless of whether you choose a chiropractor or a physiotherapist for your treatment, Family Chiropractic Care is here to answer all your questions and help you determine the best course of action for your pain management.