Osteopath, Chiropractor or Physiotherpist?

What’s the difference between an Osteopath, a Physiotherapist and a Chiropractor?

Therapist and Patient during consultation.

Chiropractors, Osteopaths or Physiotherapists is a question we get asked frequently and one which can produce widely different responses depending on whom you ask, the nature of your problem and your background.

Firstly let's look at the similarities between the professions, which include:
We all treat musculoskeletal pain conditions.
We all have university-based education.
We all have protected titles, meaning that someone can only call themselves an Osteopath, a Chiropractor or a Physiotherapist if they have completed the relevant accredited course.

All the courses are validated to ensure the highest safety standards. Training continues beyond there. To remain on the register, we must complete a specific number of ongoing Continual Professional Development hours.

Osteopaths will use manual, hands-on techniques to restore structural alignment to reduce pain and improve function. They commonly do this with gentle techniques rather than manipulation but can manipulate where needed.
Osteopaths look at the interaction between your muscular, skeletal and nervous systems to see what contributes to your issue. Then they examine what aspects of your sporting, work or recreational life may also contribute to your problem.
Our practice treats many patients with back, shoulder, and neck pain. The Osteopathic philosophy maintains that if movement exists and is balanced, good health will follow. Using manual palpation, we assess any absence in your range of motion.

Most Chiropractors emphasise treating problems by manipulating joints (adjustments) in the spine or the limbs. Manipulation is a quick manual technique that aims to improve the range of motion. Osteopaths will use manipulation, and some, but not all, Physiotherapists are trained in joint manipulation. Generally, Chiropractors view manipulation as a first option, with additional massage and exercises to aid recovery.

Physiotherapy is very popular within the NHS, and GPs, hospital doctors, and surgeons frequently refer patients to a Physio. 'Physio' is a health care profession that emphasises the use of physical approaches in preventing and treating disease and disability. It is a systematic method of assessing musculoskeletal disorders, including pain and loss of function. Some, but not all, physiotherapists are trained in joint manipulation. Most will include exercises to aid injury recovery.