Physical Therapy Chiropractor Vs Chiropractor
While the physical therapy and chiropractic fields might seem completely different, they actually work hand-in-hand to help patients heal from injuries and improve their overall quality of life. Both disciplines focus on improving muscle movement and mobility while reducing pain. Choosing which one to go to is all about what your specific injury needs.
Chiropractors specialize in treating musculoskeletal problems, such as back pain, neck pain, and sciatica. They use spinal manipulations, adjustments, and other techniques to help improve the alignment of the spine and restore proper function of joints. They are also trained to use other therapies and modalities, such as electric stimulation, heat and cold treatments, and therapeutic exercise.
They believe that the body is capable of self-healing and focus on restoring proper functioning to the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. They are known for their hands-on approach and avoid using surgery or other invasive procedures.
While they are medical professionals, chiropractors aren’t licensed physicians and have not completed a residency in any type of facility. They are subject matter experts in their field and are able to perform all of the same treatment techniques as a physical therapist.
The main difference between a physical https://www.acchiro.com/ therapist and a chiropractor is that PT’s work with muscles and soft tissue while chiropractors work with vertebrae and the spinal cord. Despite the differences, they both have a holistic approach to their care and both strive to help you get back to your normal lifestyle as quickly as possible.
Many people who suffer from injuries and illnesses like arthritis visit a physical therapist to improve their range of motion, strength, and overall quality of life. Those who have chronic back pain, neck pain, and fibromyalgia often see a chiropractor to help ease the pain and speed up healing.
Those with sports injuries, such as whiplash or shoulder pain, may also visit chiropractors for a quick fix that will reduce the severity of their symptoms. They will typically treat the injured area with massage, stretches, and other manual therapies that can help reduce swelling and inflammation.
In some cases, a chiropractor will prescribe physical therapist exercises or modalities to be done at home. This is a common practice because they believe that the patient’s involvement in their own care is vital to achieving their recovery goals and returning to their normal lives.
When both a physical therapist and chiropractor are involved in the treatment process, it is referred to as integrated healthcare. This is because they can play off each other’s strengths and complement each other’s techniques to offer the best possible care for patients. In this way, the patient can experience better results and quicker recovery times. By combining the chiropractor’s savvy in spinal manipulation with the physical therapist’s expertise in strengthening and stretching, the patient can recover faster with less pain. This will help them return to their normal daily activities with more confidence and a higher level of functional independence.