Difference between a Chiropractor and a Physical Therapist

Since chiropractors and physical therapists often treat similar conditions and body areas, many patients don’t understand if there’s a difference. This will cause them to make the incorrect decision about who they need to visit and when.

While each chiropractors and physical therapists share strikingly overlapping characteristics, there are some key differences between the 2. Let’s speak about those differences and where you’ll be able to go to get expert care from a chiropractor for those who are situated in Delaware.

Chiropractor Vs. Physical Therapist

Following are the important thing differences between chiropractors and physical therapists.

What are They?

• Chiropractor – A chiropractor is an expert who provides the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system. They’re particularly focused on how your joints can influence your nervous system and overall body alignment. They provide a hands-on approach to healing, as evident from the word chiropractic which implies “to be done by hands”.
• Physical Therapist – A physical therapist is a trained and licensed movement expert that evaluates and treats abnormal physical functions related to a disability, injury, or other health conditions. Physical therapists improve your range of motion and quality of life. Additionally they prevent future injuries.

Education

• Chiropractor – To turn into a chiropractor, one first gets a bachelor’s degree after which a Doctor of Chiropractor degree. After that, they pass the test to get their license. Additionally they complete a one-year internship at a university clinic.
• Physical Therapist – A physical therapist gets a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and passes the licensing exam. A physical therapist also can concentrate on many fields, including:
  • Clinical electrophysiology
  • Neurology
  • Orthopedics
  • Sports physical therapy
  • Health for older adult

What Do They Do?

• Chiropractor – A chiropractor manipulates the parts of your body to ease your pain and inflammation. They work on the philosophy that your body can heal with interventions (manipulations) performed by a chiropractor. They provide non-invasive ways to treat the conditions of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

A chiropractor can do the next things:

• Evaluate symptoms
• Perform physical exam
• Run tests
• Do spinal manipulation to ease pain and inflammation
• Recommend other types of treatment
• Recommend massage and exercises that you may do at home
• Advise you to make lifestyle adjustments

Physical Therapist – Then again, a physical therapist improves your movement and performance, boosting your quality of life. They guide you in exercises and stretches and educate you on staying lively and healthy. A physical therapist can do the next things:

• Get your detailed history
• Perform physical exam
• Evaluate your pain, movements, and adaptability
• Do exercises, stretches, and hands-on manipulation to enhance strength and mobility
• Treat patients in an emergency department
• Provide wound care
• Provide posture education to avoid injuries
• Provide overall wellness program

Chiropractor Near Me in Delaware

At Delaware Back Pain & Sports Rehabilitation Centers, our chiropractors are highly expert and experienced in diagnosing and treating a big selection of problems related to your spine. They evaluate your condition and utilize a holistic approach to care that enhances your body’s own healing powers.

To know more or schedule an appointment to learn from chiropractic care, call our clinic near you or request an appointment online.