Should I see a Chiro, Physio or Osteo?

‘Should I see a Chiro, Physio or Osteo?’ is a question that is asked a lot! In this blog post, we will cover what each of these professions are, what conditions they see, what qualifications are completed and which allied health professional you should see. 

Chiropractor

Chiropractors are allied health professionals who see patients that experience issues with their neuro-musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles and nerves). Musculoskeletal conditions can include (but not limited to) back pain, neck pain, chronic pain, headaches, sciatica, vertigo and more. Chiropractors primarily use spinal manipulation techniques to “adjust” patients and restore normal function of the spine and nervous system. Chiros can also provide patients movements, stretches and lifestyle advice to avoid future pain or relapse. All of our Chiropractors at Total Health Chiropractic have a direct focus on restoring normal feeling and function to the body. While we initially focus directly on pain a person is experiencing, often people report numerous other improvements in their overall health and wellness from Chiropractic care. 

In Australia, Chiropractors are registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA). To become a registered Chiropractor, one must complete a five year Chiropractic program at university. Currently this program is offered by RMIT, Macquarie University, Murdoch University and Central Queensland University. 

In this profession, education is ongoing, with Chiropractors requiring to stay up to date with the latest research, attend seminars and complete professional development courses.

Osteopath

Osteopaths are allied health professionals who see patients that experience issues in relation to the musculoskeletal system – the bones, muscles, and other tissues that support the body and controls movement. When treating patients, manual techniques, such as soft tissue massage, articulation, spinal manipulation and muscle stretches may be used. Osteos may be able to help with neck pain, back pain, sciatica, arthritis and sports injuries.

In Australia, Osteopaths are registered with the AHPRA and Osteopathy Board of Australia. To become an Osteo, a five year Osteopathy program is completed at university – depending on the university, this can program can be an undergraduate degree followed by specialist post graduate study, or a double degree. 

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists diagnose, plan and manage treatment for individuals who experience musculoskeletal, cardiothoracic and neurological issues. Physical methods are applied to reduce pain, lessen the effects of permanent injury/disease and restore function. Methods include manipulation, stretches, massage and exercise. Physios may be able to help with sports injuries, back pain, knee pain, arthritis, rehabilitation after surgery and more.  

To become a Physio, a Bachelor of Physiotherapy or Bachelor of Applied Science (Physiotherapy) is completed. Alternately, students can complete a science based tertiary qualification followed by a Master of Physiotherapy program. Like Chiros and Osteos, Physiotherapists must be registered with AHPRA. Physiotherapists also register with the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) and Physiotherapy Board of Australia (PhysioBA).

Should you see a Chiropractor, Osteopath or Physiotherapist?

After reading this, you would probably agree that all are great options. Regardless of who you choose, you will be in qualified hands – often the best choice comes down to patient preference. The team at Total Health Chiropractic are always happy to answer any questions over the phone and will let you know if Chiropractic care is suitable for your requirements – feel free to contact us.