How PT and Chiropractic Care Can Complement Each Other
Physical therapy and chiropractic care are sometimes viewed as completely separate approaches to treating pain and movement problems. In reality, there is quite a bit of overlap between the two, and depending on the individual, they can complement each other as part of a broader approach to musculoskeletal care.
The goal isn't necessarily to choose one over the other. Treatment should be based on a person's symptoms, goals, physical findings, and the approaches that are appropriate for their condition or injury.
What Does Physical Therapy Focus On?
Physical therapy commonly focuses on improving strength, mobility, movement, balance, and overall function. Treatment may include exercise, movement training, education, and manual therapy.
Exercise is an important part of managing many musculoskeletal conditions. For example, the World Health Organization recommends exercise programs as part of the management of chronic primary low back pain [1].
What Does Chiropractic Care Focus On?
Chiropractic care can include spinal manipulation, mobilization, exercise, education, and other conservative approaches depending on the patient's needs.
Spinal manipulative therapy is one treatment that has been studied for low back pain. Treatment is tailored to the individual and may focus on improving mobility, reducing discomfort, and supporting overall function.
Where Do They Overlap?
There is more overlap between physical therapy and chiropractic care than many people realize.
Both may involve:
- Addressing pain and mobility limitations
- Evaluating musculoskeletal conditions
- Manual therapy
- Exercise and rehabilitation
- Patient education
- Helping people return to everyday activities
For example, clinical practice guidelines for low back pain include both exercise and different forms of manual therapy among treatment options for appropriate patients [2].
How Can They Complement Each Other?
Different treatments can address different parts of recovery.
Someone may use manual therapy to address pain or mobility limitations while also working through an exercise program designed to improve strength, movement, and tolerance for everyday activities.
This doesn't mean everyone needs both types of care. For some people, physical therapy may be appropriate on its own. For others, chiropractic care may be appropriate. In some cases, coordinated care involving different healthcare professionals may make sense.
The WHO emphasizes that chronic low back pain care should be person-centered and may require a combination of interventions rather than relying on a single treatment alone [3].
Ultimately, the focus should be on providing appropriate care that helps a person manage their symptoms, move better, and return to the activities that matter to them.
When to Seek Professional Care
If you're experiencing pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility, don't wait. Early intervention can help prevent age-related spinal problems or injuries from becoming chronic or debilitating. At Buffalo Chiropractic + Physical Therapy, we work with patients of all ages to maintain and improve spinal health. You'll see the same team at each visit, ensuring continuity of care.
Call (716) 892-8811 to schedule your consultation today. Stop waiting, start healing.
References
- World Health Organization. WHO guideline for non-surgical management of chronic primary low back pain in adults in primary and community care settings. 2023. WHO Guideline
- George SZ, Fritz JM, Silfies SP, et al. Interventions for the Management of Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain: Revision 2021. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2021;51(11). JOSPT Clinical Practice Guideline
- World Health Organization. WHO releases guidelines on chronic low back pain. 2023. WHO: Chronic Low Back Pain Guidelines
Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing pain or have questions about your health, consult a qualified healthcare professional for an individualized evaluation.