Eventually, there will come a day where even sleep can result in neck pain.
What a wonderful way for our bodies to tell us we’re getting old.
Depending on the location and severity of the pain you are feeling, you may find yourself asking if you should go to a chiropractor or a physical therapist.
When deciding between a chiropractor and physical therapist you should that even though they be very similar in treatment options, their approaches do differ.
What Is a Chiropractor?
Chiropractic Care, it the use of non-traditional medical care to treat the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes your bones, cartilage, joints, muscles, and tendons.
A chiropractor uses their hands to treat you. Often using a mixture of customized stretches, adjustments, and realignments to your spine and joints, and deep-tissue massages that target your muscles and tendons.
Chiropractic care is no to be used as an alternative to traditional medical care, but as an additional service that promotes overall health.
A chiropractor or physical therapist will customize treatment for you. Your treatment sessions may even differ depending on what area is being targeted.
What Is a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, is a therapy that encourages rehabilitation for the sake of strength and mobility.
Physical therapists will often work with your doctor in order to create the best plan for your needs and track your progress. Physiotherapy is often sought for sports-related injuries, illnesses, or accidents that have impacted a patient’s mobility.
Do physical therapists do adjustments? Yes, they do. A physical therapist can do the same techniques as a chiropractor and more.
What’s the Difference between a Chiropractor and Physical Therapist?
After reading the descriptions for both, you may be wondering what the difference between chiropractor and physical therapist is. Well, don’t you worry, we’re about to cover that.
If you are finding it difficult to figure out which option may be best for you. You can talk to your doctor and ask if combining chiropractic and physical therapy can be an option for you.
Chiropractic care is often sought for chronic conditions like arthritis, sciatica pain, repetitive movements. When you choose a physical therapist, make sure you are familiar with their treatment methods and ask if your insurance will cover their services.
When it comes down to it, ask your doctor if he would recommend a chiropractor or a physical therapist to best meet your needs.
Don’t Get Bent Out of Shape
A chiropractor and physical therapist both use a hand on approach when treating your aches and pains.
A chiropractor will focus on your musculoskeletal and nervous system. Often times treating the symptoms of your conditions such as pain, stiffness, or inflammation.
A physical therapist is typically used for accidents or sports injuries. Working with you on stretches and exercises to heal a sprain or injury. Allowing you to be able to live your life-negating any effects of your injury.
Interested in learning about a physical therapist near you? Check out our other articles on Southern Californian physical therapists.
