Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be debilitating and significantly impact a person’s quality of life. When seeking treatment for back pain, two back care professionals often come to mind: osteopaths and physiotherapists. Both professions aim to alleviate back pain and improve overall wellbeing, there are some differences in their approaches and also some similarities. Read on to understand the differences between osteopaths and physiotherapists, and to help you make an informed decision about which one may be best to see for your back pain.
What are the similarities between physiotherapists and osteopaths?
- Both treat musculoskeletal pain conditions – pain that originates in either the soft tissue, bones, or the nervous system.
- Both titles are ‘protected’ – meaning it is illegal to call yourself an osteopath or physiotherapist unless you have completed the relevant course
- Both have a university based education
- Both must be regulated and registered with the relevant governing body
- Both must complete a process known as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to ensure they stay up to date with skills and training
What does an Osteopath do?
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its relationship to overall health. Osteopaths believe that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself and that the structure of the body is closely tied to its function.
They use manual techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilisation, and stretching, to address back pain and restore balance in the body. Osteopaths also consider lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, when developing a treatment plan for their patients.
What does a Physiotherapist do?
Most physiotherapists have experience in other areas of healthcare which formed part of their degree. This will include cardio-respiratory, neurological, intensive care, elderly care, and orthopaedics. Once qualified, physiotherapists specialise in a certain area.
Physiotherapists check alignment and also test joint mobility, muscle strength, muscle flexibility, nerve function, posture, and movement patterns. They work to restore mobility and relieve pain through hands-on techniques as well as exercise rehabilitation, postural realignment and lifestyle advice. Our physiotherapists use soft tissue massage and manipulation similar to those used by our osteopaths.
How to choose between an osteopath or physiotherapist
When deciding between an osteopath and a physiotherapist for back pain, it is essential to consider your personal needs, and goals. Both osteopaths and physiotherapists are recommended by the NHS for back pain, so it really depends on your own preference.
Fortunately, at Osteo & Physio we have both, and with our comprehensive understanding of the body, we can provide an effective solution to your back pain. Our therapists can collaborate to make sure you are seeing the right member of our team for your specific complaint. All our osteopaths and physiotherapists keep up to date with the latest research and training.
Just give us a call and we can chat through your needs to help you choose the therapist best suited to you and your situation. And if you already know you want to see an osteopath, or a physiotherapist, then it’s really easy to book a session via our app, website or call our friendly reception team on 0345 5577788.
