What is the difference between an Osteopath, Chiropractor and Physiotherapist?

A question we often get asked is “what is the difference between an osteopath, chiropractor and physiotherapist?”

In essence, each professional has the same goal and that is to identify the source of pain and aim to alleviate the symptoms. All three are trained in orthopaedic and neurological testing to help diagnose their patient’s complaint.

We differ in the techniques we employ to treat and manage the patient. In Osteopathy and Chiropractic the emphasis is a “hands on” approach.

To help answer this question without bias, we refer to the regulatory bodies of each profession.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.

Osteopaths use touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms. They may also provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles), and the effects of these disorders on the function of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.