I often get asked my opinion on chiropractors. I think mostly this question is asked with the intention of stirring the pot or with the expectation that I’ll go on a soapbox and bash chiro, but that’s not the case. In this post, I want to help differentiate between what PTs and chiros do, how they’re trained, and how their philosophies differ.
There’s definitely a lot of overlap between PT and chiro (they both treat musculoskeletal issues and help folks improve mobility and function), however, I want to go over the differences.
Every time I “crack” a patient’s back or neck, they seem surprised that I know how to do things that chiropractors do. I’ve even had someone tell me, “You should get a chiropractic license, because my neck hurts and I need to see one”. So alas, let’s dive in.
First, let’s talk about the philosophical differences.
Generally, PT’s focus on evidence-based rehabilitation to restore function, reduce pain, and improve strength and mobility. This focus is centered on enabling long-term recovery through movement, therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and education.
PT’s approach is aimed at treating the underlying cause of dysfunction rather than just the symptoms. PT includes a holistic approach, focusing on the whole body.
Generally, chiros focus on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, emphasizing spinal alignment as the key to overall health.The chiropractic approach focuses on detecting and correction of “subluxations” that are believed to interfere with nerve function.
Next, let’s look at the differences between treatment techniques.
PTs treat a wide variety of conditions including orthopedic injuries, post-surgery rehab, neurological disorders (stroke, TBI, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s), chronic pain, pediatric conditions and more with techniques such as
- Therapeutic exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and function
- Manual therapy (like soft tissue work, joint mobilization and manipulations)
- Neuromuscular re-education (balance work, proprioception, and postural re-education)
- Modalities like therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation, cupping, or dry needling
- Education on posture, ergonomics, and body mechanics
- Return to sport and performance improvement training
Chiros primarily focus on musculoskeletal issues, especially back or neck pain and headaches and their treatments often center on spinal and joint health with techniques such as:
- Spinal adjustments (what PTs call manipulations) which are the cornerstone of chiropractic care
- Manual therapy (like soft tissue work or trigger point therapy)
- Some chiros incorporate exercises, nutrition advice, or other wellness interventions
Next, let’s look at the different educational paths taken by PTs and chiros.
PT requires a doctorate degree (DPT – Doctor of Physical Therapy). Typically, this takes about 7-8 years total including 4 years of undergraduate work (Bachelor’s degree) and then 3 years of graduate work for the DPT degree. The PT curriculum focuses on:
– Movement science
– Biomechanics
– Anatomy and physiology
– Pathology
– Exercise science
– Clinical practice/problem-solving
– Diagnostic imaging
– Internships
Chiropractic also requires a doctorate degree similar to PT (DC – Doctor of Chiropractic). Typically, this also takes 7-8 years total include 3-4 years of undergraduate degree work and 4 years of a chiropractic program. The chiro curriculum focuses on:
– Spinal anatomy
– Biomechanics
– Radiology
– Chiro techniques
Lastly, PT is strongly grounded in evidence-based practice and scientific research, with PT’s frequently incorporating the latest research into treatments.
While some chiros integrate evidence-based techniques, many maintain traditional philosophies such as the “subluxation theory” which is less supported by modern research.
Have any more questions about this distinction? Reach out to a medical professional.
Are you curious which one would be best for you? Hopefully this article helped clear the water a bit, but if you’re still not sure, schedule a time to chat with me and let’s figure it out together!
