If you’ve had any sort of back, neck or joint pain, the chances are you will have stumbled across the two terms ‘chiropractor’ and ‘osteopath’. But, have you ever wondered ‘What is the difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath’? Wonder no more, we have the answer for you in this blog.
There are several differences between the two, with both having their advantages and disadvantages. Throughout the course of this blog, we will identify these differences and why each might suit your individual needs.
What’s the Difference Between a Chiropractor and an Osteopath?
A common question we get from our patients when enquiring about our osteopathy treatment is what is the difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath. Understandably, we can see how the two might get confused for each other if all the details of each role aren’t known.
The key difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath is that a chiropractor is solely focused on the musculoskeletal system, only treating the spine to alleviate pain. Whereas an osteopath will take a more holistic view, with the theory that all joints and muscles are linked and therefore should be treated alongside the main problem area. This means they still focus on the musculoskeletal system, just in a different capacity.
Both chiropractors and osteopaths use similar methods to help their patients with their pain.
How Chiropractors and Osteopaths Roles Differ
There are a few ways in which both chiropractors and osteopaths operate that set them apart too. This is the best way to identify whether you need one or the other.
X-Rays
Typically chiropractors will lean on the insights given by an x-ray, helpful when trying to identify any misalignments. Osteopaths on the other hand will opt to avoid using x-rays due to the effects of radiation and will instead look to treat the body for any weaknesses or functional deficits.
Availability on the NHS
For some people, getting private treatment for a pain they have is not financially possible, meaning they have to go down the NHS route. Getting a chiropractor on the NHS is not currently possible, whereas you can obtain sessions with an osteopath through the NHS, who will refer you to places such as ourselves.
How They Approach Treatment
As we have mentioned earlier in this blog, the biggest difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath is their approach to treatment. While a chiropractor may help you identify misalignments, an osteopath will diagnose you with a ‘stiff neck’ for example and work with you to increase mobility and ease pain.
Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques and stretches in order to get results, these include manipulations, articulation and more. To learn more about the techniques used, what an osteopath can do for you and everything in between, head over to our osteopathy page.
Book an Appointment with Our Osteopaths Today
Looking for an Osteopath based in the Reading area? Here at The Orchard Clinic our team is made up of qualified professionals with a wealth of experience helping people with their back, neck and joint pain using osteopathy. To find out more about our osteopathy treatment, please visit our treatment and therapies page, or get in touch.
