Choosing Between a Chiropractor and an Osteopath

When a patient experiences back pain, he or she may look for options that will alleviate said pain. When searching for a medical professional that can help, both chiropractors and osteopaths may come up as options. In order to choose which one is best, you have to know their similarities and differences.

What Is an Osteopath?

Osteopathic medicine focuses on the musculoskeletal system and how it affects overall health. Osteopathy is founded on the idea that your body systems are connected and dependent on one another. Osteopaths can prescribe medication in the US and can practice medicine.

What Is a Chiropractor?

Chiropractic care focuses on the idea that the spine and its structure affects the neurological system and the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors manipulate the spine to treat pain. They attempt to put the spine back into alignment, because it is a chiropractor’s belief that if the spine is in proper alignment, then the body can heal itself. While medically trained, a chiropractor does not prescribe medication.

How Are Chiropractors and Osteopaths Similar?

Chiropractors and osteopaths believe in the importance of spinal health and how it affects your health. Both believe that if you work with the spine, it can help with the nervous system and improve your blood flow. They may massage muscles and manipulate joints. The idea behind both is to relieve pain. In addition, they may even try to solve digestion, circulation and other problems that a person may have.

How Are Chiropractors and Osteopaths Different?

Osteopaths tend to have a broader range than chiropractors. In contrast, chiropractors tend to focus mostly on spinal alignment. Chiropractors will use x-rays, MRIs and other machines to see a person’s spine. An osteopath, on the other hand, works with his or her hands more and uses a physical examination for diagnostics.

When a chiropractor treats a patient, he or she tends to focus on spinal manipulation and adjustments, whereas osteopaths may have a broader range of treatments. When it comes to choosing between the two, you have to consider the complications of your condition and which doctor could help.

If you have joint, back or neck pain, then you may want to see a chiropractor or osteopath as soon as possible. Chiropractors can help you with a variety of conditions that stem from spinal misalignment. In addition, a consultation with a chiropractor like the ones at the office of the chiropractors in Dundalk, MD, who can tell you whether a chiropractor or osteopath is best for your condition. Set up an appointment and talk with a chiropractor today.

Thank you to the experts at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for their insight into chiropractic care.