14 Feb Osteos, Physios, Chiros: What’s the Difference?
There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable within yourself, and aches, pains and twinges can be very debilitating if they’re not addressed quickly – and by the right medical practitioner.
But it can be difficult to know where to turn and which healthcare professional you should go and see in order to resolve the situation… which is why understanding the differences between osteopaths, physiotherapists and chiropractors can be very helpful.
So we thought we’d give a little explanation of all three so you know where to turn if you are experiencing discomfort or are worried about your physical health at the moment.
Osteopaths
Osteopathy is the practice of detecting, treating and preventing physical problems through manipulation of the muscles and joints, using techniques such as massaging and stretching. The aim is to increase joint mobility, relieve tension in the muscles and boost blood supply to tissues in order to help the body heal and keep it strong and healthy.
No drugs or surgery are involved in the practice, so if you’re concerned about either of these, osteopathy may well be the right course of treatment for you.
If you’re experiencing anything like lower back pain, shoulder or elbow pain, neck pain, sports injuries, arthritis and so on, come and see us here at Camberley osteopathy clinic OsteoVision to see how we can help ease your symptoms and ensure that they don’t come back.
Physiotherapists
Because osteopaths and physiotherapists treat very similar conditions, there is often confusion regarding the two and you would be forgiven for thinking that they’re basically the same practice.
However, there are fundamental differences and it’s important for you to understand them fully, so you know you’ve made an appointment with the right clinic.
Physios treat people affected by disability, illness or injury through manual therapy, movement and exercise, helping you to manage pain and prevent diseases (the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists).
While both physios and osteos treat all muscle and joint problems, osteos are generally more focused on spinal issues, such as neck and lower back pain.
Physios cover respiratory, neurological and musculoskeletal health, and often use the likes of ultrasound and electrotherapy during their course of treatment, while osteos typically work more with their hands.
Chiropractors
Again, there are distinct similarities between chiropractors and both physios and osteos, with all three concerned with musculoskeletal health and the importance of a healthy spine – but the treatments and approaches are, again, quite different.
Chiropractors can help with issues related to the nervous system (such as pinched nerves), as well as focusing on making adjustments to the spine. Osteos, meanwhile, take a more holistic approach to problems with the body and use a wider range of techniques than a chiropractor will, covering soft tissue and muscle manipulation.