When you feel pain or have trouble moving, it can be hard to know who to visit for help. Chiropractors and physical therapists are two popular options, but they have different roles, methods, and goals. Knowing these differences can help you choose the right care for your needs.
This article will explain when to see a chiropractor and when to see a physical therapist.
Chiropractor vs. Physical Therapist: The Key Differences
Both chiropractors and physical therapists aim to improve your physical well-being. However, they achieve this through different approaches.
Here is a breakdown of what each professional does:
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
Chiropractors are experts in treating problems with the muscles, bones, and joints, especially the spine. They work to align the body to help it heal naturally and improve how it works. Chiropractors believe that the spine’s alignment affects the health of the whole body.
Here are some main things chiropractors do:
- Spinal Adjustments: They use their hands to move the spine into the right position.
- Pain Relief: Chiropractors help with back pain, neck pain, and headaches using spinal adjustments and other methods.
- Holistic Care: They often give advice on exercise, healthy eating, and managing stress to improve overall health.
Chiropractors treat issues like sciatica, herniated discs, and joint pain. Their treatments do not involve surgery or prescription medicines.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
Physical therapists are specialists who help people move better and feel stronger. They create treatment plans to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or health problems that make movement hard.
Here are the main things physical therapists do:
- Help people heal and regain strength after injuries or surgeries, like broken bones or joint replacements.
- Design special exercises to make muscles stronger and improve movement.
- Use methods like heat, cold, or electrical therapy to reduce pain.
- Teach ways to avoid getting hurt again and stay healthy over time.
Physical therapists often help with sports injuries and recovery after surgery. They also aid in long-term conditions like arthritis or Parkinson’s disease that affect movement.
Training and Licensing Differences
Chiropractors and physical therapists both need a lot of education and training, but their paths are different:
Chiropractors
Chiropractors earn a doctor of chiropractic (DC) degree, which takes about four years after college. They are licensed healthcare providers who focus on spinal health.
Physical Therapists
Physical therapists earn a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree, which also requires advanced education after college.
They are trained to treat many movement problems and must complete hands-on training before getting their license.
Who Should You See?
Choosing between these providers depends largely on the nature of your condition and your treatment goals. Below are scenarios that can help guide your decision.
When to See a Chiropractor
You may benefit from seeing a chiropractor if you experience:
- Back or Neck Pain: Chiropractors are known for treating spinal issues like chronic lower back pain or neck stiffness.
- Headaches or Migraines: If traditional remedies are not helping, chiropractic adjustments may ease tension headaches or migraines.
- Joint Pain: Issues like shoulder or knee pain brought on by misalignments may be helped by chiropractic care.
- Sciatica or Herniated Discs: Chiropractors specialize in relieving nerve-related pain through spine and joint adjustments.
- Preference for Holistic Care: If you prefer a non-invasive, medication-free approach to healing, chiropractors may be the right choice.
Chiropractic care typically involves ongoing sessions to maintain alignment. So, it is important to consider the time commitment.
When to See a Physical Therapist
Physical therapists are ideal if you need help to regain movement or improve specific physical functions. You should consider a physical therapist if you have the following concerns:
Recovering from an Injury
Whether it is a sports injury or an accident, physical therapists can help you heal and regain strength.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Surgery on joints or ligaments, such as ACL or hip replacement, often requires physical therapy. It can help you make a complete recovery.
Strengthening Muscles
If you are weak due to inactivity, illness, or injury, physical therapy can help rebuild your strength.
Chronic Conditions
For conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, physical therapy can help. It can improve mobility and quality of life.
Preventative Care
Are you prone to injuries or have repetitive strain issues? Physical therapists can teach you how to prevent further damage.
Physical therapy is structured with a timeline and specific goals. Sessions will likely include exercises and stretches that you can continue at home.
Can You See Both?
Yes, you can see both a chiropractor and a physical therapist, if needed. For example, let’s say you are recovering from a herniated disc. A chiropractor can help align your spine. On the other hand, a physical therapist can guide you with exercises to build strength and improve movement.
Chiropractor in Grand Junction, CO
Deciding between a chiropractor and a physical therapist can feel overwhelming. However, the right choice of occupational health services near you depends on your specific needs. Both professionals offer invaluable expertise that can improve your quality of life. They can help whether you are managing pain, recovering from an injury, or wanting to enhance mobility.
Are you unsure where to start looking for the best chiropractor near you? Reach out to WorkPartners Occupational Health, the top occupational health clinic near you. Our team can help you determine the most effective care plan tailored to your condition. Call us at (970) 241-5585 or request a consultation today. Your road to better health starts here.
The best chiropractors and occupational health doctors look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24625-physical-therapist
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21033-chiropractic-adjustment
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chiropractic-adjustment/about/pac-20393513
