What’s the difference between osteopathy and chiropractors

Osteopaths and chiropractors are both manual therapists, using their hands to diagnose and treat patients while addressing day-to-day aches and pains. Both professions emphasize the spine, nervous system, and related structures. However, there are significant differences between the two practices. Let's explore these distinctions to better understand each approach.

Osteopathic Techniques

Osteopaths may use spinal manipulations in their treatments, but not all do. Their techniques involve movement, stretching, and mobilization of joints, soft tissues, and the spine. Osteopaths often employ cranial therapy, which doesn't involve the spine, and visceral manipulation, focusing on organs rather than the musculoskeletal system or spine. Osteopathic manipulations are distinct from massage therapy.

Chiropractic Techniques

Chiropractors are known for manipulating the spine, which may include joint manipulation (adjustments), soft tissue manipulation, nervous system adjustments, or a combination of these methods. Chiropractors also utilize other therapies like massage, hot/cold packs, exercise, stretching, and dietary advice. Some chiropractors with additional osteopathic training may use osteopathic techniques. However, not all chiropractors employ spinal manipulations; some concentrate on non-spinal treatments or joint treatments in other body parts.

Difference 1: Licensure and Regulation

Osteopaths are regulated healthcare professionals, required by law to complete an accredited osteopathy degree and clinical training internship. In the United States, osteopathic physicians can become medical doctors or complete a three-year postgraduate osteopathy program. Chiropractic, on the other hand, is considered an alternative medicine form in the United States and Canada, with no regulation or licensure requirements.

Difference 2: Education and Degree Requirements

Both osteopathy and chiropractic programs require a bachelor's degree for admission. Osteopathy programs often last five years, while most chiropractic programs are four years long. Despite covering a range of similar subjects, the degrees are distinct; osteopathy is a medical profession, while chiropractic is not. Osteopaths are trained in diagnosing and treating medical issues, while chiropractors address non-medical issues like sports injuries, back pain, and neck pain.

Difference 3: Treatment Techniques

Although both osteopaths and chiropractors use manual techniques, their approaches differ significantly. Osteopaths utilize various techniques, including joint mobilizations, soft tissue mobilizations, stretching, massage, and other joint therapies, as well as cranial therapy. Chiropractic, a sub-branch of osteopathy, primarily focuses on spinal manipulations, with the most common technique being the spinal joint 'adjustment.'

Conclusion

While both osteopathy and chiropractic are manual therapies centered around the spine and nervous system, they are distinct professions. Osteopathic manipulations differ from chiropractic techniques, offering unique approaches to treatment. To learn more or explore osteopathic care, consider booking an appointment with one of our osteopaths.