In order to answer this question, it is useful to refer to the definitions and general information published by the professional bodies for each of these three therapies in turn:

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession, specialising in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal disorders and their effects on the function of the nervous system and general health.  It is especially related to the spine.

Some problems associated with the MSK system can be caused by accidents, stress, inactivity, posture, illness and everyday wear and tear.  These problems may cause pressure or stress on the nerves in the body.

Chiropractors use specific manipulations to free joints in the spine or other areas of the body that are not moving optimally, and give patients advice on exercise, self-help, diet and lifestyle.  Chiropractors regularly promote rehabilitation programmes and provide advice on posture.

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Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a primary healthcare profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, and their effects on the patient’s general health.

Osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, based on the principle that the body is its own medicine chest, and focus their sessions on strengthening the MSK system to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness. By considering symptoms in the context of the patient’s full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances, a holistic Osteopathic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient

Treatment increases the mobility of joints, relieves muscle tension, promotes the blood and nerve supply to tissues and helps the body’s own healing mechanisms via a range of techniques, such as joint manipulation, articulation, soft/deep tissue massage, soft tissue stretch and often acupuncture.  Advice on posture and exercise to address potential barriers to recovery is regularly provided too.

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Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a primary healthcare profession, aiming to restore movement and function to the fullest potential when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability.  The profession helps to encourage development and facilitate recovery, enabling people to stay in work while helping them to remain independent for as long as possible.

Physiotherapists achieve this through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice.  They maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease.

Physiotherapists work in a range of healthcare settings, such as intensive care, mental health, neurology, chronic conditions, occupational health and care of the elderly.  They help to treat physical problems associated with a number of the body’s systems, including the MSK, neuromuscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

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Similarities and Differences

Although Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists are very similar, they are each derived from independent schools of thought and their approach to patient treatment differs.

Each profession uses orthopaedic and neurological examination skills, similar to those used by traditional medical practitioners, to examine and diagnose their patients’ presenting complaints. They will all teach patients a variety of exercises to be carried out at home to reinforce their care between treatment sessions.

References

www.csp.org.uk
www.gcc-uk.org
www.osteopathy.org.uk
www.nhs.uk

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