New Chiropractic Patients
If you have discomfort or pain in your neck, shoulders, or back, it’s natural to consider professional help. But who do you see – an osteopath or chiropractor?
Both professions have much in common, being focused on holistic musculoskeletal health. So how do you decide which is most suitable for your particular condition? And – if they are similar, just what is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?
This is where a little bit of research (and the help of this post) should give you a good understanding of the key differences between these healthcare professionals. And help you make a more informed decision about whether to see a chiropractor or osteopath for neck and shoulder pain or even back pain…
Today let’s look at the main differences between chiropractors and osteopaths. How does each type of healthcare professional approach and treat musculoskeletal issues? Which one is more likely to suit your particular condition?
Osteopathy focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. Founded in the late 1800s by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, osteopathy emphasises the importance of a harmonious relationship between bodily structure and function.
Osteopaths consider the body to have an innate ability to heal itself, and proper structure is key to this process. They use a variety of hands-on techniques – stretching, massaging, and manipulating muscles and joints – to restore balance in the body.
Osteopaths also take a holistic approach to healthcare by considering the entire body rather than focusing solely on the area of pain. For example, if you’re experiencing neck pain, an osteopath might also examine your posture, spinal alignment, and even how you walk to determine the root cause.
Chiropractic also focuses on musculoskeletal health, respects the body’s innate healing abilities, and recognises the interconnectedness of the body’s systems.
However, chiropractic places particular emphasis on the nervous system i.e. your NEUROmusculoskeletal system. This focus is based on the understanding that your body’s overall health is closely linked to your nervous system and thus spinal health.
In particular, chiropractors consider that misalignments or dysfunction in your spine can lead to nervous system issues that cause pain and affect your ability to function properly, even in structures that are distant to your spine.
Chiropractors use spinal adjustments and manipulations to correct vertebral dysfunction. The aim is to:
This approach is grounded in the understanding that correcting spinal dysfunction can help alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves. This helps to reduce pain and improves function in the affected areas, such as the neck and shoulders.
Furthermore, as chiropractic care particularly focuses on the role of your nervous system in your overall health, chiropractic treatment can potentially benefit more than just musculoskeletal issues.
Both chiropractors and osteopaths treat musculoskeletal issues and share a commitment to holistic healthcare. However:
Our primary treatment focus as chiropractors is on identifying and alleviating spinal dysfunction that may be causing pain and inflammation in the body. Spinal adjustments are the cornerstone of this treatment.
We may also incorporate a range of other therapies into our treatment plans, including exercise, diet, and lifestyle advice. The primary difference though is that these are supportive therapies, not our core treatment method.
In comparison, techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint articulation, stretching, and even cranial techniques are a regular part of core osteopathic treatment plans. The techniques used depend on individual patient requirements.
Osteopaths may also provide advice on diet, exercise, and lifestyle to support overall health and wellbeing.
In the UK, both chiropractors and osteopaths must complete extensive training to qualify and practice.
Chiropractors typically complete a 4-5 year degree at a GCC (General Chiropractic Council) recognised institution.
The course includes both academic and clinical components and focuses heavily on anatomy, physiology, and of course neurology. There is also (understandably) a strong emphasis on spinal manipulation techniques.
Osteopaths must also complete a 4-5 year degree at a GOC (General Osteopathic Council) recognised institution, but their training is more holistic.
It covers a broad range of techniques and focuses heavily on the body’s musculoskeletal structure as a whole. Emphasis is on training to assess and treat the body holistically, considering all aspects of health.
Should you see an osteopath or chiropractor for neck pain, shoulder pain, or back pain? Well – it depends…
What is the nature of your pain?
Localised pain, particularly spinal pain, is probably best treated by a chiropractor. For generalised pain or advice on overall body health, an osteopath might be more suitable.
What is your preferred approach to healthcare?
If you prefer a holistic approach that considers the entire body and may involve a variety of techniques, osteopathy might be the right choice.
If you’re looking for treatment that focuses specifically on your spine or on issues that may be associated with spinal and nervous system dysfunction, chiropractic care is likely the better option.
Osteopaths use a whole-body approach that incorporates various techniques to treat musculoskeletal issues and promote overall health.
Chiropractors focus on the spine and nervous system and how the health of these structures affects overall health and wellbeing. We primarily use spinal adjustments to address vertebra dysfunction and support overall wellbeing.
If you’re still unsure, consulting with both types of practitioners can give you a better understanding of how their treatments can benefit your specific condition.
