What profession is right for me? An overview of Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy and Advanced Biostructural Correction(ABC).
When you are in pain or wanting to correct postural issues, trying to identify the right treatment for you can seem daunting. There are many different professions, each have their own pro’s and con’s.
Chiropractic, Physiotherapy and Osteopathy are three distinct healthcare professions that focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoneuroskeletal conditions. While there are similarities in their goals and areas of expertise, there are also key differences between them. ABC can be learnt by and administered by all of these professionals.
Here’s an overview of each discipline:
Chiropractic
Chiropractors primarily focus on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. They believe that many health issues are caused by misalignments of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, which can place pressure on and disrupt the nervous system and impact the communication between the brain and the body.
Chiropractic treatment involves targeted manual adjustments or manipulations of the spine and other joints to restore proper alignment and improve function. Chiropractors often use their hands or specialized instruments to perform adjustments.
Physiotherapy (Physical Therapy)
Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who aim to promote, restore, and maintain physical function and mobility in individuals with musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiopulmonary conditions. They work on improving strength, flexibility, range of motion, and overall physical well-being through exercise and stretching. They typically tend to focus on the region that is experiencing pain. They may also use manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilizations, soft tissue massage, and stretching exercises, among other interventions.
Osteopathy
Osteopaths focus on the body’s structure and function and how it relates to health and disease. They emphasize the concept of the body as a whole and believe that the body has the ability to self-heal. Osteopathic treatment involves a hands-on approach, similar to chiropractic care, where practitioners use manual techniques, such as manipulations, stretches, and massage, to improve joint mobility, enhance circulation, and relieve pain. Rather than using specific adjustments they look to reduce overall tension within the body. Osteopaths may also provide advice on lifestyle modifications, exercise, and other aspects of patient care.
Advanced Biostructural Correction
ABC is a specialised technique which looks at the whole body as an interconnect unit, so has a holistic approach to postural correction that targets bones that require correction that the body cannot self correct, through the whole skeleton. Its practitioners use precise adjustments to correct imbalances in the musculoskeletal system, aiming to bring the body back to its natural state of alignment, while providing efficient pain relief, and improved posture and function.
