Differences Between Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
Your body is a fantastic machine that can heal itself. However, sometimes, your body needs a little help getting and staying on the path to good health. This is where chiropractic care and physical therapy come in. Both are excellent choices for those seeking natural, drug-free solutions for pain relief and improved mobility. But, what are the differences between these two healing modalities?
Mode of Treatment
Chiropractic care is a hands-on, drug-free health care approach focusing on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Chiropractors use various techniques to adjust the spine and other joints in the body to reduce pain and improve function. These techniques include spinal manipulation and manual and physical therapies.
Oakland physical therapy is also a hands-on health care approach focusing on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. However, physical therapists use different techniques than chiropractors. Rather than spinal manipulation, physical therapists may use exercises, stretches, and massages to reduce pain and improve function.
Effectiveness
Both chiropractic and physical therapy are effective at reducing pain and improving function. However, chiropractic may be more effective when treating specific conditions than physical therapy. Conditions like headaches, migraines, neck pain, and back pain often respond well to chiropractic care because chiropractic adjustments can directly target the cause of the problem whereas physical therapy may only provide temporary relief. A chiropractor in Oakland can provide you with a specific treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Cost
The cost of chiropractic and Oakland physical therapy can vary depending on various factors, such as the severity of the condition being treated, the number of treatments required, and the location of the practice. In general, chiropractic is less expensive than physical therapy. This is because chiropractic adjustments are typically shorter in duration than physical therapy sessions and don’t require the use of expensive equipment.
Side Effects
Chiropractic care is generally safe and has few side effects. The most common side effect is temporary soreness or discomfort following an adjustment. This is typically mild and goes away within 24 hours. You should consult a chiropractor in Oakland if you have any concerns about potential side effects.
Physical therapy may also cause temporary soreness or discomfort. However, the risk of injury is higher because physical therapy often uses exercises and stretches that are more aggressive than those used in chiropractic care.
Insurance Coverage
Both chiropractic and physical therapy are typically covered by health insurance. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific insurance plan. For example, some insurance plans may only cover a certain number of chiropractic or physical therapy visits per year. Ask a Oakland chiropractic clinic or Oakland physical therapy center about their insurance coverage before scheduling an appointment.
Chiropractic and physical therapy are both effective at reducing pain and improving function. However, they are two distinct modalities with different approaches to care.
Spine and Joint Center is a state-of-the-art Oakland chiropractic clinic that offers chiropractic and physical therapy. Our team of experts will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your needs. Contact Spine and Joint Center today to schedule a consultation.
