Do I need a Chiropractor or a Physical Therapyst
docJayChiropractic Vs Physical Therapy
Lower back pain is a common problem people experience in their daily lives. When it comes to treatment, chiropractic, and physical therapies are two popular options. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these two methods.
Chiropractic Management
1. Safe and natural
it is a non-invasive treatment. A chiropractor will perform spinal manipulation to adjust the spinal column to align properly, which can help relieve pain in the lower back.
2. Focused treatment
The chiropractor concentrates on finding the source of pain and working on it. Treatment plans tailored to the individual will help achieve the desired results.
3. Long-term benefits
Chiropractic care can be a long-term solution that provides not only back pain relief but also increased mobility and range of motion.
Physical Therapy Management
1. Helps to restore normal movement
Physical therapy aims to relieve back pain by increasing flexibility and improving the function of muscles and joints surrounding the back.
2. Research-Based
Physical therapy is often approached from a medical perspective based on scientific evidence and research.
3. Personalized Treatment
Physical therapy can create a customized approach for each patient that includes exercises and stretches, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound therapy or hot and cold packs.
4. Suitable for different types of pain
Physical therapy can help alleviate pain caused by a variety of conditions, including back pain resulting from accidents or illnesses such as arthritis, herniated disc, etc.
Chiropractic Vs Physical Therapy: Compare and Contrast
| Chiropractic | Physical Therapy |
Approach | Focuses on musculoskeletal alignment and nervous system functioning. | Specifically tends to tendons, ligaments, and muscles. |
Treatment | Usually involves adjustments to the spine. | Focuses on exercise, modalities like heat/cold therapy, and massages. |
Education levels | Requires a higher level of education, such as a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from a chiropractic college. | Requires a physical therapy (PT) degree from an accredited program – Masters’s or Doctoral Degree. |
Type of patient | A chiropractic doctor is often sought out to help relieve pain associated with health problems, such as slipped discs, sports injuries, and car accidents. | Physical therapy is used to help people with chronic pain, athletic injuries, or car accident injuries. |
When to choose Chiropractic over Physical Therapy?
The root of back pain is misalignment of the spine.
If you are facing any spinal column issue, then Chiropractic management is best as it focuses on spinal adjustments.
The main reason behind back pain is muscle weakness or tightness.
Physical therapy management is recommended because it targets muscle tightness, scarring, or weakness that may be causing pain.
You are looking to alleviate tension and stress in your body.
Chiropractic management can help reduce high levels of stress and tension and make you feel calm and relaxed.
The root of back pain is misalignment of the spine.
If you are facing any spinal column issue, then Chiropractic management is best as it focuses on spinal adjustments.
The main reason behind back pain is muscle weakness or tightness.
Physical therapy management is recommended because it targets muscle tightness, scarring, or weakness that may be causing pain.
You are looking to alleviate tension and stress in your body.
Chiropractic management can help reduce high levels of stress and tension and make you feel calm and relaxed.
Chiropractic Vs Physical Therapy: Pros & Cons
Chiropractic pros
- Non-invasive treatment
- Short-duration appointments
- Improves immunity system
- Safe for kids and pregnant women
Physical Therapy pros
- Personalized treatment plan
- Improve strength, flexibility, and coordination
- Hands-on approach
- Treatment can prevent surgery
Chiropractic cons
- Risk of stroke or spinal cord injuries
- May require multiple appointments
- Not always covered by insurance companies
- Not effective for some conditions
Physical Therapy cons
- Can be expensive
- Requires dedication to get results.
- May require several sessions to achieve desired results.
- Few options only for patients who can’t do some exercises.
Conclusion
Both chiropractic and physical therapy management serve their specific purposes. Each offers benefits when it comes to the management of lower back pain. It is important to consult with your healthcare professional to determine which therapy is appropriate for you based on your unique situation.
