FAQ No. 1 “What’s the difference between an Osteopath, Chiropractor and a Physio?
In the UK, osteopathy, chiropractic, and physiotherapy are distinct healthcare professions that focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. While they share some similarities, they differ in their underlying principles, training, techniques, and regulatory frameworks.
From a patient’s point of view there are a few differences you might find. All use hands on treatment and will all see a similar type of problem. Typically, Osteopathic appointments are 30 mins long, similar with a physio and shorter 5-10 minutes with a chiropractor.
Each profession tends to use different ways of working (techniques) to help their patients. Osteopaths use combinations of soft tissue massage, joints manipulation and stretching and some gentle light touch techniques (e.g. Cranial osteopathy). They will also advise patients on stretches and exercises to help their progression.
Chiropractors tend to focus on spinal ‘adjustments’ while Physiotherapists do some hands on treatment, they also work through rehab exercises.
Regulation: Osteopaths complete a 4 or 5 year degree course and are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Only registered osteopaths can use the title “osteopath.”
Chiropractors are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and complete a 4-5 year degree course. The title “chiropractor” is also legally protected.
Physiotherapists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They may also be members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP). They will have completed a 3 year degree course.
There can be a lot of similarity between the disciplines and ultimately you are best to work with someone who you feel understands your issues and works in a way that suits you, whether you are 20 or 90 years old. In practice, there is overlap, and some professionals may incorporate elements from other disciplines. The choice between them often depends on personal preference, specific symptoms, and the practitioner’s expertise
For more information on Osteopathy visit The General Osteopathic Council www.osteopathy.org.uk or The Institute of Osteopathy www.iosteopathy.org