Chiropractors are known for treating back pain. Physical therapists can treat musculoskeletal conditions from head to toe. So which one should you see for your back pain? It depends on your condition and the type of treatment experience you want. Typically, chiropractors provide temporary relief from misalignments and nerve compression by applying force. Physical therapists can help with a broader range of spinal conditions and injuries. They provide more comprehensive care that focuses on long-term, sustainable results. Physical therapy usually involves longer sessions with multiple treatment modalities.
If you’ve seen a primary care doctor or a surgeon for your back pain, they may be able to provide more insight on which option is best for you. Learning about the differences and seeking consultations can also help you decide.
In this article, we’ll share five key differences between physical therapy and chiropractic care.
Physical therapy vs. chiropractor: 5 key differences for pain relief
Both physical therapy and chiropractic can provide relief from different types of back pain. Chiropractic is helpful for acute pain and pain related to impact or whiplash. If you injured your back in the past and you sometimes have pain from misalignment, a chiropractor may be a good choice.
Physical therapy, on the other hand, can help with many conditions that affect the tissue and joints of the back. A physical therapist can help at almost any stage of the healing process. This includes preparation for surgery and postsurgical rehabilitation.
PTs can help with conditions like these and more:
- Pinched nerves
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Misalignments
- Sciatica
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains and tears
- Arthritis
- Inflammatory conditions
Here are five key differences to understand between physical therapy and chiropractic:
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Treatment philosophy and approach
Physical therapy and chiropractic have very different treatment philosophies and practices. Each has its own specialty areas and variations in technique. PTs study musculoskeletal and neurogenic pain, biomechanics, and optimal movement patterns. They provide movement-based rehabilitation and functional restoration for the entire body. Chiropractors focus on how problems in the spine affect the rest of the body. They perform adjustments or manipulations by applying pressure.
Physical therapy is grounded in scientific study and evidence-based practices. The same can be said for mainstream evidence-based chiropractic care. It has come a long way from its origins, which included some pseudoscientific ideas. However, there is still debate in the profession between two schools of thought. Some providers focus on preventive care or wellness, and some treat musculoskeletal conditions. This is a very complex issue, and these groups have significant overlap.
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Treatment techniques used
Physical therapists create comprehensive and personalized treatment programs. They combine manual or hands-on therapy with exercise therapy and other evidence-based modalities (e.g., dry needling). They can advise patients on lifestyle adjustments and equipment to support long-term injury prevention or wellness goals.
Chiropractors do some soft tissue work as well as spinal adjustments or manipulations. This usually involves applying controlled force to joints that are stiff or restricted.
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Education and training requirements
Both physical therapists and chiropractors need a doctoral degree and a state license to practice in the United States. PTs earn a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) and complete residencies. They can also pursue fellowships and board certification in specific areas of practice. Chiropractors earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree and complete a year of supervised clinical experience. They must also pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams.
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Conditions treated
Physical therapists can treat a wide range of conditions and injuries of the soft tissue, joints and nervous system. Some can treat complex issues like pelvic floor dysfunction or vestibular disorders, which affect balance and coordination. Chiropractors treat mostly musculoskeletal and spine-related conditions. Both can help with proactive or preventive wellness.
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Treatment duration and frequency
Physical therapists plan multiphase treatment programs. These may take a few weeks or several months. PTs can see three patients per hour, though at Forever Fit, we limit our providers to two. Chiropractic visits are usually shorter, and they provide ongoing maintenance.
Considerations for choosing a care provider
The best care provider for you will depend on the condition you have or the goals you’re looking to achieve. Chiropractors are more limited in scope, focusing on pain relief for spinal problems. They offer more passive treatments that take only minutes to complete.
Physical therapists provide comprehensive care that usually involves a combination of active and passive treatments. They can perform spinal manipulations to help relieve pressure and promote healthy movement. They can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. They can also treat a range of other conditions and support overall wellness.
Forever Fit offers effective physical therapy
Both physical therapy and chiropractic have a place in comprehensive care for back pain. They both offer noninvasive treatment options, and they may even use some of the same techniques. Both should provide personalized treatment based on your condition and your wellness goals. The important thing is finding providers you trust, who can support your overall quality of life.
At Forever Fit, we help our patients find relief from pain and dysfunction by treating the likely underlying causes. Our providers will take the time to listen to you and get a deep understanding of your back pain before recommending treatment approaches. While PT can be challenging, we’ll never push you to do activities that worsen your pain.
Looking for a physical therapist near Severna Park, Frederick or Gaithersburg, Maryland? Check out these locations or see if there’s a Forever Fit near you. You can also fill out an appointment request form here or give us a call to set up your appointment.
