Understanding the Difference Between Osteopaths & Chiropractors

When looking for a chiropractor in Peterborough, many people stumble upon listings for osteopaths who seem to offer similar, if not identical treatment services. What’s worse, when this happens, confusion subsequently sets in and in some cases, people who have originally searched for a chiropractor in Peterborough will choose to reach out to a local osteopath instead.

Why this happens is simple. The word ‘osteopath’ sounds very similar phonetically to the word ‘orthapaedic.’ This being the case, many people mistakenly assume that a local osteopath will be more medically qualified than a chiropractor in Peterborough when it comes to treating different back and musculoskeletal problems. The key question, in this case, is what exactly is the difference between a chiropractor in Peterborough and a local osteopath?

Osteopathy Vs Chiropractic Care

The primary difference between an osteopath in Peterborough and a chiropractor in Peterborough lies with the fact that chiropractors focus predominantly on the alignment of vertebra in the spine itself and are trained in both radiology (making diagnose from X-Rays) and radiography (taking X-Rays). Osteopaths do not themselves take X-rays, though they may regularly see them or refer people to the hospital for them. Chiropractic is also traditionally focused on the health of the nervous system which is responsible for all body functions as opposed to the bloods and circulation which is the original focus of osteopathy.

Different Diagnostic Tests & Care Approaches

On of the biggest benefits associated with seeing a chiropractor in Peterborough or an osteopath, is the fact that chiropractic treatments can be administered in tandem with more conventional medical treatments. This is because we do not prescribe medication or apply any kind of chiropractic adjustments which might interfere with medication which our patients are already taking.

Using simple but effective chiropractic adjustments to treat pain and discomfort, chiropractic treatments are completely non-invasive.

What kind of Treatment Should you Choose?

The most important thing to remember when it comes to osteopathy and chiropractic care is that the two treatment concepts aren’t in competition. In fact, in many cases, a chiropractor in Peterborough will advise a patient during the consultation process, if they feel that alternative treatments such as those offered by osteopathy might be more suitable for them.

Are you in pain? If so and you would like to find out what kind of treatment might be right for your situation, make sure to get in touch today. This way, you can benefit from an honest consultation which will help you understand your options a little more clearly.

Daniel O’Sullivan
Peterborough Chiropractor (Peterborough Chiropractic Health and Wellness Group)