Chiropractic vs. Physiotherapy: What’s the Difference?

Patients are often curious about the difference between these two disciplines. Do they offer similar treatments? Why are the treatment lengths different? We interviewed our practitioners to get their professional take on how chiro and physio are different: scroll down for their answers!

Let’s start with the basics.

While both professions focus on how the body moves and functions as a whole, chiropractors approach the body from its nervous system and joints whereas a physiotherapist sees how the muscles may restrict movement.

What is chiropractic?

Chiropractors are doctors who practice the art of healing by adjusting, or manipulating, the spinal column and extremities. A healthy, well aligned spinal column moving with full range of motion allows the nervous system to perform properly, which is vital because it controls every function of your body.

Dr. Manreet says: “While both professions focus on how the body moves and functions as a whole, chiropractors approach the body from its nervous system and joints.”

How do you become a chiropractor?

All registered, licensed Chiropractors complete a 4-year Bachelor of Science, and then a 4-year doctoral program to earn their title “DC”, which stands for “Doctor of Chiropractic”. That’s 8 years post-ed!

What is physiotherapy?

Physiotherapists work with people to identify and maximize their ability to move and function. You can expect strengthening exercises, manipulations, postural education, and a stronger sense of how your body works.

Kyle says: “Usually, a physio considers problems as (if not accident-related) postural and bio-mechanical, such as poor posture and lifting techniques. I see solutions as muscle-based and education-focused. We want to empower you to rebuild your strength and mobility with not only hands-on treatment, but also exercises you can do at home. A 30-minute treatment only goes so far to intervene with the rest of your 24/7 weekly activities.”

How do you become a physiotherapist?

All registered, licensed physiotherapists require a Masters degree in Physiotherapy, which takes two years. They will also have completed a (4-year) Bachelor’s Degree, ideally in Human Kinetics or biology-related. That means all Canadian-educated physiotherapists have six years of post-secondary education.

Most physios will have the initials “PT” after their name, though you may notice some who have “DPT”. A doctoral degree of physical therapy is an American industry requirement, and requires an additional two years of study.

Do chiropractors and physiotherapists treat pain differently?

Dylan says: “The approach to pain should be similar, because pain is multi-dimensional. We are treating the person as a whole rather than just the injury, but you’ll see us use different techniques and tools. Physiotherapists more commonly use exercise, manual therapy, and modalities to relieve pain, but there can be overlap between the two disciplines.”

Manreet says: “Chiropractors will perform active release therapy, an assisted stretching program, to allow muscles to relax and lengthen.”

Does one discipline have an advantage over the other?

It depends what health challenge you need treatment for. There are different specializations for each professions: chiropractors can further specialize into Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation, and Pediatrics. Physiotherapists can specialize in Pelvic Floor, Concussion Rehab, and more.

If you are looking for a quick adjustment, initial chiropractic visits are 30 min; subsequent visits are 15 minutes. If you’re interested in better understanding the muscular aspect of your pain, initial physiotherapy visits are 45 min; subsequent visits are 30 min. Physio visits are longer to allow time for exercise plans and education.

Still not sure which discipline is right for you? We can help.

Credits: storyset