Osteopath vs. Chiropractor: The Main Differences
Are you seeking care for your back, neck or shoulder pain and wondering who to see for it? In Australia we are fortunate to have multiple allied health services that aim to restore musculoskeletal wellbeing, including chiropractors and osteopaths. Let’s take a look at how you can choose what may be the best fit for you and your family.
Similarities Between Chiropractic and Osteopathy
Both practitioners complete a five year university degree and are registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency (AHPRA). The Chiropractic Board of Australia also regulates chiropractors.
Chiropractic and osteopathy aim to provide drug-free, non-invasive, conservative manual therapy and, thus, improve your wellbeing.
Differences Between Chiropractic and Osteopathy
Although the practice of spinal manipulation has been around since ancient times, DD Palmer founded chiropractic in 1895. In the twenty-first century, chiropractic has evolved with research and evidence to focus on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. By assessing your entire spine and extremities, chiropractic takes a holistic approach to your health. It aims to support your nervous system to function optimally so that your body can heal and recover at its best.
Chiropractors address your individual concerns through adjustments, soft tissue therapies, exercise rehabilitation, and lifestyle advice. Chiropractors are experts at assessing for movement dysfunctions and restoring motion by applying controlled and swift pressure through the joint complex. Often, gas is released in the joint, creating a popping noise. Whether it’s stiffness or tightness you’re experiencing, or the development of headaches, back pain, knee or shoulder pain, they utilise a well-rounded approach to assist you in your wellness journey, no matter your age.
Osteopathy was founded by Dr. Andrew Still in 1872, believing that they can influence joints, muscles, circulation, and internal organ function. Osteopaths focus on treating the adaptations that happen when the body experiences pain, believing in treating the whole person. Similar to chiropractors, they work with the joints and muscles but often use osteopathic mobilisations, stretching, and other techniques to focus on those structures moving as a whole unit. They can also provide education and advice on how to live a healthier lifestyle.
Finding a Practitioner To Suit Your Needs
There can be many overlaps in the allied health industry. We advocate for you to take charge of your health and wellness by working alongside a chiropractor or osteopath who you can trust.
It’s important to find a provider who looks not only at the area where you are sore, such as your lower back, but also considers the contributing factors up and down the movement chain to get to the root cause. Both professions take a whole-body holistic approach, which is the foundation for improving your overall health.
If you’re ready to start your health journey, give us a call or book online with our chiropractors.
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The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your chiropractor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional chiropractic advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
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