The Differences between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor
When it comes to looking up alternative forms of treatment, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with choices as there are so many. This is why it is important—more than ever—to be empowered with your decisions. A few weeks ago, we received a question that piqued our interest quite well.
Heather from Atlanta sent in a question from across the big pond. She asked what the distinct differences between an osteopath and chiropractor are. This was something that understandably confused some people as both concepts deal with the physical manipulation of the spine, bones, and joints. Let’s take a look at some of their differences:
Osteopathy Came First
What we find fascinating about both concepts is that one came first. Osteopathy was established in 1872. Chiropractors did not come about until 1895 and only because one of the students that studied under the founder of osteopathy decided to try out their hand at alternative treatment.
Chiropractors Are More Well-Known
If you mention alternative physical treatment, it would be odd at all to be referred to a chiropractor rather than an osteopath. The biggest difference comes in the form of their marketing and advertising strategies. There has been significantly more advertising about chiropractors and their craft than osteopaths.
Chiropractors Target Specific Areas
Chiropractors will often target the spine of the patient as they believe that a majority of the pains that humans feel pass through the spine. Osteopathic treatments however treat the totality of the body and not just a specific area. A majority of chiropractors focus more about popping joints rather than a holistic take at treatments.
Osteopathy Tends to Limit Radiation Exposure
When you get your x-ray taken, you are exposed to radiation. Chiropractors will always require their patients to have an x-ray taken. Osteopathy, however, will limit doing so unless wholly necessitated by the osteopathic doctor. Osteopathy always aims to be on the all-natural side of the treatment spectrum.
Osteopathic Treatments Are Extensive
Usually chiropractors will not go on for extended periods of time. Osteopathic can go on for several sessions—as long as there is recurring pain, more and more people will keep coming back to osteopathy.
To Conclude
We don’t blame you if you were confused about the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor. This is a concept that anyone can easily be mistaken in. We hope that today’s discussion helped you to determine the difference. That way, you’ll be able to fully know who you should see regarding your ills.
How to find an Osteopath away from Wales
We understand that you might read this and be to far to visit us. So how to find and Osteopath somewhere else?
Well of course you could call the University College of Osteopathy, formerly known as the British School Of Osteopathy and ask for graduates in your area, but we would only recommend someone that we can trust completely. So if you are in London and can reach Notting Hill conveniently we suggest you visit Idris at Natural Moves, his reputation precedes him and he also has some celebrity endorsements.
