Basically, there is a lot of overlap between the two professions. Both chiropractors and physiotherapists treat joints and musculo-skeletal problems to increase movement and strength, decrease pain and help return you to full function. But the main difference between the two disciplines is that a chiropractor traditionally uses manipulation, where a physiotherapist will more commonly use mobilisation techniques.

What is meant by Chiropractic manipulation?

Chiropractors use their hands to adjust the joints of your spine and limbs where signs of restricted movement are found. Gentle, specific manipulation techniques help to restore normal body movement. Treatment aims to make you move better and more freely.

Chiropractors treat acute and chronic low back and neck pain, sciatica, neck related and tension headaches, neck related dizziness or vertigo and extremity joint conditions,

What is meant by Physiotherapy mobilization techniques?

A physiotherapist will treat using a range of manipulation and massage techniques, electrical therapies and exercise to heal and restore movement.

Physiotherapists treat back and neck pain, sciatica, arthritis, swelling in joints, repetitive strain injury, sports injuries and cartilage, ligament and tendon damage.

It hurts, who do you choose?

If your back or joints feel locked, stiff, and sore or maybe haven’t responded to other treatments, then a consultation with a chiropractor is recommended. Soft tissue problems are more commonly treated by physiotherapists as well as joint and muscular problems which are restricting movement and causing pain.

Usually, a short consultation over the phone will first determine whether you are best to see a physiotherapist or chiropractor. At your consultation, thorough questions will be asked about your pain and other symptoms, your lifestyle and general health. A physical examination will look at the whole body not just the isolated area to determine a diagnosis and to form a treatment plan – that will return your body back to a certain level of function. Our approach at the Waldegrave Clinic is that we will cross refer, to make sure you always get the right treatment.

Both disciplines will also give exercises and advice to help manage injuries and medical conditions

The first priority is to just get yourself examined professionally and your practitioner will advise which treatment is best for your condition – and refer you accordingly.

Contributors to this post are Jacky Balfour, Physiotherapist and Owain Evans, Chiropractor who both practice at the Waldegrave Clinic.