Osteopathy vs Physiotherapy vs Chiropractic?

Osteopaths, Physiotherapists and Chiropractors – what is the difference?

When faced with the challenge of overcoming an injury or pain, it is difficult to know which of these professions is suitable for you. In the U.K.* there are many similarities between all three professions – they all work on the structure of the body, many of the conditions they treat are similar, they require a degree to become qualified, and are all regulated by their own governing bodies. However, there are some fundamental differences in terms of philosophy, application of technique and even some of the techniques used.

*In the U.S. Osteopaths have to go to Medical School.

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopaths look at the whole body and are more holistic, considering how dysfunction in one part of the body can have a knock-on effect on another part. Osteopathy tends to focus more on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, although not solely restricted to this. During an Osteopathic degree there is greater emphasis on identifying the causes of a disease or injury compared to Physiotherapy or Chiropractic. Every patient is treated as an individual and treatment plans are specific to each patient, not a “one size fits all” approach for the same condition.

Requires a 4-5 year degree

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapists often work within the NHS and help people to recover following a physical illness or injury or people with developmental problems or disability. They often use equipment such as TENs machines or ultrasound and prescribe rehabilitative exercises. Physios can help to improve conditions from four of the body systems (Neurological, Respiratory, Cardiovascular and Musculoskeletal) such as Strokes, Heart attacks, MS, Parkinson’s Disease, COPD to name but a few. A course of Physiotherapy is specifically tailored to whichever part of the body is in need of treatment.

Requires a 3 year degree.

What is a Chiropractor?

People often get confused about the difference between Chiropractors and Osteopaths as we use similar techniques. Chiropractors primarily focus on the alignment of the spinal joints and on the effects of the spine on individual nerve branches that stem from between the segments. They often utilise X-rays and see patients multiple times per week for shorter appointment times. In comparison, Osteopaths use a wider variety of treatment techniques including soft-tissue massage, muscle stretching, joint articulation/mobilisation, and manipulation. Appointment times are longer, as our approach is broader, and treatments tend to be spaced out over a longer period of time.

Requires a 3-4 year degree

Not sure what profession is best for you? Then check out my blog on Finding the Best Physiotherapist, Osteopath or Chiropractor in Manchester.