Back pain: Subtle differences of medical professionals to help with pain in back and lower back pain.
Back pain and sciatica is a very common complaint, which many people experience at some point in their lives. But what is the right treatment option - how do you know if you should see a chiropractor, osteopath or physiotherapist?
There are many different forms of treatment that can help treat your back pain but knowing which options are available to you, and distinguishing between different professions can be somewhat confusing. Ultimately, the idea is to clear you of your back pain and to promote and restore mobility in the fastest possible time without the use of ongoing drugs or surgical intervention. Osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapist aim to do just this but in slightly different forms.
So, what is the difference between an osteopath, chiropractor and physiotherapist?
Chiropractor
Chiropractors are often associated with joint ‘cracking’, but there is more to this than people think. This is known as a spinal manipulation, which chiropractors are famously known for. However, chiropractors do use a range of techniques in addition to spinal manipulation from mobilisation, massage and muscle release to improve mobility.
Osteopath
Many people assume osteopathy is related to bones, but osteopaths specialise in the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of many musculoskeletal disorders - from pain and injury. Osteopaths spend time looking at the relationship between the structure of the body and the way it functions. An osteopath will give you a clear explanation of a working diagnosis, along with predisposing factors, and discuss a treatment plan that is suitable for you. Treatment is hands-on and involves skilled joint and spinal manipulation joints, in addition to soft tissues treatment and rehabilitation.
Physiotherapist
Whereas chiropractors and osteopaths have more of a hands-on approach, the aim of physiotherapy is to work on strength and rehabilitation, often through specific exercise. Physios are often more present in the hospital setting, aiding strength post-surgery of patients. Physios use a combination of physical therapy, massage, stretches, to treat injuries.
With any form of back pain, all of the above professions have their place, with all having one aim in mind - to reduce pain and to restore function. Here at Dynamic Osteopaths in Solihull and Birmingham we fortunately have experience in all 3 areas above, along with specialist training in orthopaedics and regenerative medicine.
GET IN TOUCH TO FIND OUT MORE OR SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION
Don’t let back pain, joint damage, sports injuries or arthritis get in the way of allowing you to do what you want. Schedule a consultation at Dynamic Osteopaths & Regenerative Medicine today, and let us treat your injury, provide pain relief and get you back to your full and active lifestyle. We have clinics operating out of Solihull (Henley-In-Arden), Birmingham (Harborne/edgbaston) & Bromsgrove (Barnt Green).
Call us today 01564 330773