The most common question we get asked by new patients is: “Should I see a chiropractor or an osteopath?”
And the answer we always give, is that you can see either.
There’s a common misconception that perhaps chiropractors only treat backs or that osteopaths offer a more holistic approach, but the two professions are actually very similar in their training and approach to treatment.
So it’s actually easier to list the similarities rather than the differences between chiropractors and osteopaths:
• Although best known for treating back and neck pain, both specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal complaints. These are problems with the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves of the body, including shoulder and arm pain, hip and knee pain, osteoarthritis and more. Click here for more information on the wide range of conditions chiropractors and osteopaths can help with
• Both undergo a 4 year university training degree to be able to practice and are regulated by law – chiropractors by the General Chiropractic Council and osteopaths by the General Osteopathic Council
• Both can refer you for diagnostic investigation such as X-Rays or an MRI or Ultrasound scan if required. For more details on our scanning service, including fees, click here
• Both offer a hands on approach to pain and wellbeing, using a range of safe, gentle and effective treatment techniques. These include mobilisations and manipulations or adjustments of stiff joints, muscles and tendons; stretching and rehab exercises; cranial therapy and acupuncture for tension and pain
In fact the only real difference is the term used to describe the treatment technique both professions are most well known for. You might call it ‘cracking’ or ‘clicking joints’, but osteopaths call it ‘manipulation’ and chiropractors call it an ‘adjustment’.
So now you know.