Pain-related to bones, ligaments, and muscles is very common. Fortunately, various professionals can help. These professionals are licensed and allowed to perform adjustments to help reduce pain. Among the most common are chiropractors, osteopaths, and physiotherapists.
These professionals are accessible around the world. However, people don’t make the best out of them. Some people don’t seek their help and some of those who do, make the wrong choices. This article will help you understand more about these professionals. This will help you make an informed choice.
Chiropractor
Chiropractors mostly focus on issues to do with the human spine. They can diagnose, correct, or prevent issues to do with the spine. Their popularity is increasing dramatically. Most people believe that they are very effective, and that is why they visit a chiropractic clinic.
This practice is based on the fact that adjustment on the spine can help with ailments. Chiropractors help alleviate pain by finding the correct alignment of the spine. Chiropractic treatment is also believed to help with several unrelated disorders. Some of these disorders include asthma, high blood pressure, menstrual pains, and autism. However, there isn’t much evidence supporting this.
This kind of treatment uses different kinds of techniques to achieve their goals. Some of them include:
- Ice/heat
- Acupuncture
- Manipulation
- Massage
- Ultrasound
- Lifestyle advice
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is mostly used to help people recover from injuries, physical disability, and surgical procedures. Physiotherapists also help prevent certain health problems. However, most people know physiotherapists for their role in sport. They help players recover from injuries.
What most people don’t know is that they can also help a person with arthritis. They can even help patients in post-stroke, post-surgery, and even Parkinson’s disease. They can also help mothers recovering from birth. They are licensed to help with the following conditions:
- Injury recovery
- Neurological disorders
- Ensuring safety in workplaces
- Joint and muscle stiffness.
- Joint and muscle pain
- Supporting the aged
Physiotherapy is supported by evidence and can be of help especially with injuries. Also, all physiotherapists must have at least a bachelor’s degree. They are learned.
Osteopathy
This practice has its focus on the whole body.Unlike chiropractic and physiotherapy which focuses on specific parts of the body. The assessment usually comprises of:
- Skeleton
- Circulatory system
- Connective tissues
- Internal organs
- Nerves
- Joints
- Muscles
The professionals use their hands to help improve symptoms of ailments. However, the pressure applied by these experts is usually a bit gentle. They make use of other methods.These methods include neurological testing, orthopedic, exercise prescription, and dietary advice.
Osteopaths also have the skill to recognize a medical problem. Then refer you to the relevant experts. They are trained to perform basic examinations of:
- Musculoskeletal system
- Cardiovascular system
- Nervous system
- Respiratory system
Their treatments are evidence-based. However, more research is still needed. But from past experiences, osteopathy is effective. You don’t have to be referred by a doctor to seek the help of an osteopath.
Which Option is best for You?
Well, the best option will depend on your condition and you. However, whichever option you choose you must ensure that it is science-based. Also, the practitioner should be licensed. You should not use your money in vain. At least conduct a background check about the professional. See the people he has helped in the past. Determine what they have to say about him.
The professional should be happy to help you. Someone with experience and a good track result. Avoid any therapist who makes false promises. Promises that cannot be fulfilled no matter what. For example, one promising to heal chronic disease. Choose a therapist who will teach you how to take care of your health.
