To understand how physical therapists and chiropractors can work together, it can first help to understand the similarities and differences in these two professions. Both physical therapists and chiropractors work to help their patients restore function and movement within their bodies after an injury. However, physical therapists are trained to treat all joints, while the main focus of chiropractors is primarily the spine.

Function of PTs versus chiropractors

Chiropractors perform manipulations or adjustments that help with the realignment of the spinal vertebrae. This helps to restore function and stability to the spine and nervous system. In turn, chiropractic treatments can help to reduce back pain, neck pain and headaches. With correct alignment of the spine, patients can achieve better movement and balance, and even improved nerve function. Chiropractic Intervention has long been considered a complementary or alternative form of medicine.

Physical therapists evaluate, diagnose and treat patients for conditions that cause a decrease in physical ability and functioning, including injury, age, disease or environmental factors. Physical therapy treatments help a patient to improve his or her strength, range of motion, posture, flexibility, mobility and balance, and restore maximal functional mobility.

Ways to work together

PT Solutions occasionally receives requests from Chiropractors looking for Therapists to join their clinics. Multidisciplinary clinics that offer both Chiropractic and Physical Therapy services are growing in popularity. Clinics that offer both chiropractic and physical therapy services to clients in the same facility, cater to patients who want to benefit from both disciplines. These clinics focus on a whole body approach to wellness and improved functioning. To this end, they offer spinal manipulations to improve alignment and nerve function, with physical therapy services to help with strengthening, posture, stretching, range of motion, and functional mobility. Some of these clinics also offer massage and nutritional wellness services to further support a whole health approach to wellness.

To learn more
For more information about chiropractics or to network with chiropractors in your area, you can visit the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners at www.nbce.org or the American Chiropractic Association at https://www.acatoday.org/.

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