It’s not unusual for a person to experience a certain degree of pain and discomfort throughout their life, but while in many instances this may be temporary, or not warrant a trip to a medical professional such as a chiropractor, other times it may be incredibly debilitating for the sufferer.
Whether you’ve researched what kind of treatments to seek, or been recommended to see a chiropractor or osteopath by your GP, you may still be wondering which one would best suit your needs.
With this in mind, here is a helpful guide that should point you in the right direction, and get you the help you need:
A chiropractor explained
Focusing on the correctalignment of the spine and other joints, chiropractors undergo extensive and rigorous training to qualify as medical professionals, and view the body from a holistic perspective. In treating the human body as one single organism, instead of a series of different and entirely separate systems, they are able to successfully treat a wide range of conditions.
When they are working to correct a joint or bone that is misaligned, it’s important to note that this will have an impact on other parts of the body, too, such as the muscles and nerves, making it possible for them to treat many conditions with the help of natural remedies. This form of treatment is typically preferred by chiropractors, over the recommendation of surgery or prescription medication.
An osteopath explained
Focusing on physically manipulating the muscles, tissues and bones of the body, just as with a chiropractor, osteopaths see the body as a whole system, but they are widely regarded as practising an alternative form of medicine.
With their holistic approach, osteopaths are trained to focus more on the musculoskeletal system, and as such, don’t take what can be considered as the traditional path to medicine.
What are the main differences between the two?
The main thing that sets apart chiropractors from osteopaths, is the level of educational training they undertake. Qualified osteopaths have the right to give out prescriptions, as they hold a medical degree and have identical rights to those of any GP. Chiropractors, on the other hand, are not able to give out prescriptions as instead of holding a medical degree, they hold a Doctorate of Chiropractic.
The other difference between the two is the types of treatments they administer to their patients, with chiropractors using a series of chiropractic adjustments to try and correct joints that are misaligned, while osteopaths place their focus upon stretching and massaging soft tissues to manipulate them.
What are the similarities between them both?
While they may be educated differently, it’s important to note that both osteopaths and chiropractors undergo intense training in a variety of areas of medicine, including biology, anatomy and diagnostic imaging. Both professional practitioners are highly skilled in their respective fields, and both view the body from a holistic standpoint.
Additionally, both chiropractors and osteopaths believe that the body has the ability to heal itself, and that for it to achieve optimal wellness, the body can be restored without depending on surgery or medication.
Do you need a chiropractor or an osteopath?
Which type of medical professional you choose to seek treatment from, will depend entirely upon your condition. If you’ve recently suffered a car accident or similar such injury, and have lower back pain as a result, then a chiropractor would likely present you with the best option for healing. The same may apply if you wake up every morning suffering with a pain in your back, neck or leg.
However, if you’re experiencing fertility or digestion issues, for example, you might be better off searching for osteopathy in Woking. An osteopath may suggest that you undergo tests for a variety of possible conditions, while treating the problem from a holistic approach.
Ultimately, whether you seek help from a chiropractor or an osteopath, they will be able to treat you for a variety of aches and pains, and if necessary, recommend you to the right practitioner according to your needs.
Read Also
- Why the Keto Diet Works for Some People—and Fails Dramatically for Others: An Ayurvedic Breakdown for Modern Healthcare
The keto diet has dominated weight-loss culture for years. For some people, it produces rapid fat loss, stable energy, and improved mental clarity. For others—especially those who gain weight easily—it leads to burnout, digestive distress, rebound weight gain, high cholesterol, and a metabolism that feels slower than before. Healthcare often frames this as a discipline… Read more: Why the Keto Diet Works for Some People—and Fails Dramatically for Others: An Ayurvedic Breakdown for Modern Healthcare - How to Choose the Best Assisted Living Facility for SeniorsAre you looking for the right assisted living facility for a senior loved one? Choosing a place can feel overwhelming. There are many factors to consider, from care services to the environment. Safety, comfort, and social opportunities play important roles in daily life. Each senior has unique needs and preferences that must be met. Understanding… Read more: How to Choose the Best Assisted Living Facility for Seniors
- Burn Smart, Not Hard; Shape Burn: Clean Protein for Weight ManagementYou want to feel light, strong, and confident. You don’t want crash diets or fake promises. You need a plan that works with your body, not against it. That’s where Shape Burn comes in. You can burn fat without losing strength. You can eat better and stay full. You can manage weight in a way… Read more: Burn Smart, Not Hard; Shape Burn: Clean Protein for Weight Management
- Creatine Basics: How Much Is 5g, How Much Water You Need, and Whether Pills or Powder Work BetterIf you’ve ever walked into a supplement aisle or scrolled through fitness TikTok, you’ve probably seen people talking about creatine — usually with a shaker bottle in hand and promises of better workouts and faster gains. And honestly? They’re not wrong. Creatine is one of the most researched and effective supplements for muscle strength, recovery,… Read more: Creatine Basics: How Much Is 5g, How Much Water You Need, and Whether Pills or Powder Work Better
- Understanding Breast Cancer in Men: Key Facts and SymptomsBreast cancer is often thought of as a disease that only affects women. However, men can develop it too. Although it is less common, early detection and awareness are important. Read on to learn key facts, symptoms, and ways men can take action to protect their health. How Common Is Breast Cancer in Men? Breast… Read more: Understanding Breast Cancer in Men: Key Facts and Symptoms
