“What’s the difference between an Osteopath, a Physiotherapist and a Chiropractor?”. This is top of our frequently asked questions. I’ve put together a little blog and I hope it helps clear things up.
The answer is not simple as there are many good examples of all of these professions.
Physio
However, a Physio tends to work with you by giving you exercises & some minor body work treatment. This may include a little massage & possibly joint mobilisation, if you’re lucky. A lot of Physios in the NHS work on a very short appointment time basis. This can be as short as about 10-15 mins per session.
Chiro
A Chiropractor may or may not do some of what a physio does. They may also use much stronger joint mobilisation techniques as & when necessary.
Chiropractors rarely give more than 20 minute appointments and any research which is surrounding neck manipulation which has been deemed risky, is related to Chiropractic techniques and not Osteopathic techniques, they are very different.
An Osteopath generally will have many of the techniques listed above as common knowledge & use them often.
Adjusting joints is our Osteopath (Phil’s) speciality.
Other approaches to treatment include much softer forms, such as Cranial technique, loved by those who prefer gentler approach.
The outcome of this is generally a more balanced & relaxed feeling after treatment.
Everyone is different however & it is up to you how you decide to obtain pain relief & relaxation. Our 5 star reviews speak for themselves, and we offer a 40 minute appointment minimum, this allows us the extra time to carefully explain what we plan to do and take extra care with your body so as not to cause any undue upset.
In truth, the choice is yours and whichever you choose, the focus of the practitioner should be on getting you better as quickly and safely as is possible, including providing you with a treatment plan outline and an end goal.
This goal may include jobs for you to do such as a small amount of stretches or exercises which may need items such as stretchy bands, but should always include hands on work as this is integral to your recovery as much as the exercises and medicines you may have opted to take.
I hope that’s answered the question “What’s the difference between an Osteopath, a Physiotherapist and a Chiropractor?” and if there’s anything you want me to write about then please do get in touch and I’ll do my very best help out.
