Chiropractic care has gained considerable popularity in recent years. It is typically used to address spinal issues by applying pressure or adjustments to injured joints. However, what distinguishes chiropractic care from physiotherapy? Let's explore the differences in detail.

Differences Between Physiotherapy and Chiropractic

At a glance, chiropractic and physiotherapy seem similar, as both involve techniques such as joint manipulation or stretching to alleviate the patient’s discomfort. Both approaches aim to reduce pain and improve physical function without surgery. Despite these similarities, their goals and methods differ significantly.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy focuses on restoring physical function, accelerating recovery, and preventing recurring pain. A physiotherapist typically designs a personalized exercise program to promote physical activity and healing.

The duration and procedures of physiotherapy are tailored to the patient’s condition. Some activities that may be included are manual therapy like massages or relaxation exercises, movement exercises such as walking with assistance, radiation therapy, or hydrotherapy in a warm pool. Physiotherapists also teach specific stretching exercises to relieve pain and reduce the risk of injury.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic care concentrates on the neuromusculoskeletal system, including bones, nerves, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. In Indonesia, chiropractic is considered complementary alternative medicine rather than a mainstream medical practice.

Key differences between chiropractic and physiotherapy include:

• Chiropractic focuses on pain relief and spinal alignment, whereas physiotherapy targets eliminating pain and restoring full body function.
• Chiropractic is specialized in managing back pain, neck pain, joint issues in the arms or legs, and headaches, while physiotherapy covers recovery from various conditions affecting overall mobility.
• Chiropractors perform spinal manipulations and adjustments to facilitate natural healing, whereas physiotherapists emphasize stretching, exercise, and some manual manipulations to enhance movement.
• Chiropractic care is typically available in specialized chiropractic clinics, while physiotherapy services are provided in hospitals, physiotherapy clinics, or other healthcare facilities.

When Should You See a Physiotherapist or Chiropractor?

Physiotherapy is ideal for individuals with limited mobility due to accidents, injuries, surgeries, or other health conditions. It is also recommended for those experiencing pain while moving or struggling with mobility. Conditions that may require physiotherapy include:

• Osteoarthritis (joint inflammation)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune joint inflammation)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Stroke
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Meanwhile, chiropractic care is typically sought by individuals with conditions such as back, neck, or pelvic pain.

Both physiotherapy and chiropractic care share the goal of alleviating pain and improving movement. If you are experiencing musculoskeletal issues, consult a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment. Alternatively, you can use the consultation feature in the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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