What is the difference between a chiropractor and an osteopath?

Question

I have pains in my right shoulder. My GP said it is probably muscle spasms and just gave me ibruprofen. Other than stopping the pain temp, this hasnt worked. I dont want to go back as I dont feel he is much help so would like to see a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor but dont know which one would be best. Any ideas?

Answer 1

~ Hi ~ ! Here's information I found:

Osteopaths:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osteopathy

From personal experience a Chiropractor will usually do a full examination (including X-Rays) and then use manipulation on the area that needs help. My husband saw a Chiropractor for years for his neck pain issues.

Physiotherapist:

Usually has to do with Physical Therapy and again I have had personal experience that. You will meet with a specialist that will examine all your test results, X-Rays, MRIs, etc., and design a program that strengthens the area in question with the goal being to relieve pain. Usually, they will had exercises each week as you gain strength to the area that is injured.

I hope this helps and you get relief soon! =)

Answer 2

The word chiropractor is derived from Greek.

'Chiro' means 'hand'. and 'prattein' means 'to do'.

A chiropractor treats diseases predominantly with manipulation or massage of spinal and musculoskeletal structures, nutritional therapies, and emotional support. Prescription therapies and and surgery is not used.

An osteopath uses manipulation as the primary method used

to restore structural and functional balance, but also can use

physical, surgical and therapeutic methods. Osteopathy is recognised as a standard method or system of medical and surgical care. Physicians with a degree in osteopathy use the designation D.O.. Although 'osteo' means bones their management is not limited to bones.

A physiotherapist  is a person who manages diseases of the joints , muscles  etc. by physiotherapy. Here they use accepted scientific procedures to treat diseases of joints , the back , limbs and muscle by methods like Infra heat therapy, massage, and exercise. They usually take action after being referred by a Rheumatologist or an orthopedic surgeon.

My advice to you is to meet an orthopedic surgeon and get

your condition examined and if he advices to meet a physiotherapist.

If you do not like it that way  you can meet an osteopath.

I am a medical doctor

Answer 3

by the fact you said GP, and the term physiotherapist I am guessing you are from the UK, where a osteopath is NOT a physican like a DO in the US. There they are only trained in manipulation. Really when it comes to manipulation no two practitioners are alike, so it is really all about finding one you like. Talk to people in your area and get some recommendations.

Answer 4

An osteopath is a doctor, they have D.O. after their name instead of M.D. Chiropractors are not doctors. Both do spinal manipulations, but a D.O. can also prescribe medicine for pain relief or inflammation.

  Also, your insurance will probably pay for seeing the D.O., but not the chiropractor. I love going to Chiropractors, but my insurance doesn't cover it. My D.O. is also my general practitioner for all my regular medical issues.