Physiotherapist vs Chiropractor: Who Should You See?

What Physio is Best For

Physiotherapy can take different specialised approaches for a whole range of injuries and conditions, both acute and chronic. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, managing a chronic condition like arthritis, or seeking relief from persistent back pain, there’s a type of physiotherapy that can help. 

Here are just some of the specific conditions that we can treat with physiotherapy at our award-winning London clinics:

• Sports injuries, including strains, sprains, and tendonitis.
• Arthritis and joint pain management.
• Back and neck pain, including sciatica and herniated discs.
• Post-surgical rehabilitation, such as knee or hip replacement.
• Musculoskeletal conditions, including fibromyalgia and carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Neurological conditions, such as stroke rehabilitation and multiple sclerosis.

Physiotherapy is all about helping you overcome limitations, regain full function, and live your best life pain-free.

Finding a Physiotherapist

In the UK, finding a qualified physiotherapist involves ensuring they are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to practise legally. Look for professionals with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy, though many hold advanced degrees or specialised certifications. Consider their areas of expertise and experience, as well as any additional training or specialisations that might be relevant to you. 

Ultimately, you have the freedom to choose a physiotherapist based on their qualifications and experience. Start your search by exploring our team of expert physiotherapists at One Body LDN, where we prioritise quality care and personalised treatments. Did you know that you can use private health insurance to pay for physiotherapy, whether or not you’ve been referred by the NHS?

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a healthcare discipline that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, primarily through manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine and other joints. So, it’s quite similar to physiotherapy!

Rooted in the belief that proper alignment of the musculoskeletal system is key to your body’s natural ability to heal itself, chiropractic care aims to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve your overall well-being. 

Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to address joint restrictions or misalignments, known as subluxations, which may be interfering with nerve function and disrupting your body’s balance. Like physiotherapy, chiropractic care has a holistic and patient-centred approach that’s a non-invasive way to address any health concerns.

What Chiropractic Care is Best For

Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, just like physiotherapy. However, where chiropractic care differs is the range of conditions treated. Chiropractors primarily look at issues related to spinal alignment and joint function, aiming to restore proper movement and treat symptoms (usually pain and stiffness). 

Common conditions treated by chiropractors include:

• Back pain, including lower back pain and sciatica
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches and migraines
• Joint pain in the shoulders, hips, and knees
• Muscle tension and stiffness in the back and shoulders

Chiropractic care aims to optimise spinal health and enhance your overall physical function. Just like physiotherapy, pain relief and freedom of movement are the priorities. But while physiotherapy encompasses the entire body, also incorporating exercises and education for long-term recovery, chiropractic care focuses just on the spine for immediate relief.

Finding a Chiropractor

Similarly to physiotherapy, if you want to get chiropractic care in the UK you should look for qualified and registered practitioners.

When seeking a chiropractor in the UK, it’s essential to ensure they are registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). Without this registration, a chiropractor cannot legitimately practise. When finding a physiotherapist, consider their qualifications, experience, and any specialised training that might be relevant. 

While chiropractic care may be an option for some people, it’s worth noting the differences between physiotherapist vs chiropractor approaches. Physiotherapy offers a broader scope of treatments and has a solid evidence-based approach to offering comprehensive care. At One Body LDN, our team of expert physiotherapists provides personalised and effective treatment options, whether you need physiotherapy, osteopathy, a sports massage, or even strength training.

To find out whether you need a physiotherapist or a chiropractor, start with an initial physiotherapy assessment. Get started at One Body today and come see us in London – find our state-of-the-art clinics near London Bridge, Old Street, and Farringdon today.