Chiropractic care offers a variety of benefits to people of all ages. Comparing a chiropractor to a physical therapist or medical doctor is like comparing the sky to the grass. They are all completely different professionals who do completely different things, though they can complement each other when providing care for an individual.
The Differences Between the Three
Chiropractors, physical therapists and medical doctors all provide different services to their patients. The following are some differences.
- Chiropractor – A chiropractor does most of his or her work by hand. Chiropractors focus on the joints and spine, figuring out how to align the body and improve the nervous system. Chiropractic methods are non-invasive and more conservative than other types of treatment. To obtain this title, students will receive a bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Chiropractic, as well as pass the state’s exam.
- Physical Therapist – A physical therapist also does a lot of work by hand, but there are lots of tools and pieces of equipment they will use as well. Physical therapists focus on movement and whole-body function. To become a physical therapist, a student needs a bachelor’s degree, a Doctorate of Physical Therapy and will need to be licensed through the state.
- Medical Doctor – A medical doctor may do some work by hand, but most treatment is through testing, surgical procedures and medication. A medical doctor’s focus is on overall wellbeing, often treating the symptoms to relieve pain from a particular disease. To become a medical doctor, a student will need a bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school and anywhere from three to seven years of residency, after which he or she will be licensed with the state.
Working Together for Better Health
A chiropractor, physical therapist and medical doctor can all work together to improve one patient’s health. For example, someone with back problems may require a spinal fusion, which would require a medical doctor’s diagnosis and the work of a surgeon. After the surgery, the patient would need physical therapy to obtain mobility again, as well as to strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine. After about a year of recovery, that patient could seek chiropractic care to limber up the back, become properly healed and prevent future injuries.
Contacting a Chiropractor to Get Started
There are many health concerns that could be treated by chiropractic care alone. If you are curious whether your condition qualifies, contact a chiropractor today to get your questions answered. Contact a chiropractic clinic in Annapolis, MD, like a chiropractor at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic, to schedule an appointment.
