Introduction
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints, affecting people of all ages. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, you may be wondering whether to see a physiotherapist or a chiropractor. Both professions focus on pain relief and improving movement, but they take different approaches.
At RED Physiotherapy Clinic, we often get asked: “Should I see a physiotherapist or a chiropractor for back pain?” In this blog, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and when to choose each treatment.
What Does a Physiotherapist Do?
Physiotherapy focuses on restoring movement and function through hands-on treatment, exercise therapy, and education. A physiotherapist helps patients with:
✅ Muscle and joint pain relief ✅ Posture correction and ergonomic advice ✅ Rehabilitation after injury or surgery ✅ Strengthening weak muscles ✅ Improving mobility and flexibility ✅ Reducing the risk of future injuries ✅ Providing personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs
A physiotherapist treats the root cause of back pain by improving muscle imbalances, mobility, and strength. Unlike chiropractors, physiotherapists work on overall body function, rather than focusing only on spinal adjustments.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine and nervous system, using spinal adjustments to relieve pain and improve function. Chiropractic care includes:
✅ Spinal manipulations to improve alignment ✅ Joint adjustments for better movement ✅ Relief from nerve compression (e.g., sciatica) ✅ Reducing inflammation and stiffness ✅ Encouraging natural healing processes ✅ Correcting spinal misalignments that may be causing discomfort
A chiropractor uses manual adjustments to correct misalignments, which some believe contribute to pain. These adjustments are based on the principle that spinal health affects the nervous system and overall bodily function.
Key Differences Between Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care
| Feature | Physiotherapy | Chiropractic Care |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Muscles, joints, mobility | Spine and nervous system |
| Treatment Type | Manual therapy, exercises, rehabilitation | Spinal adjustments, realignment |
| Common Conditions Treated | Back pain, sports injuries, post-surgery recovery | Sciatica, neck pain, spinal misalignment |
| Goal | Long-term recovery, strengthening | Pain relief through spinal adjustments |
| Evidence-Based Approach | Yes, backed by medical research | Mixed opinions on effectiveness |
| Active vs. Passive Care | Active – exercises and strengthening | Passive – spinal adjustments |
Which One Should You Choose for Back Pain?
The best choice depends on your specific condition and needs:
- Choose Physiotherapy if… you have muscle weakness, poor posture, sports injuries, or need rehabilitation after an injury. Physiotherapy is ideal for those who want an active role in their recovery and long-term pain relief.
- Choose Chiropractic Care if… you have spinal misalignment, nerve compression, or prefer manual adjustments. Chiropractic care may be helpful for short-term pain relief but is not always a long-term solution.
Pros and Cons of Physiotherapy vs Chiropractic Care
✅ Benefits of Physiotherapy
- Treats the root cause of pain, not just symptoms
- Helps improve long-term mobility and strength
- Uses scientifically-backed techniques for pain relief
- Personalised rehabilitation plans for lasting results
❌ Limitations of Physiotherapy
- Requires active participation from the patient
- Progress may take several weeks to notice improvement
✅ Benefits of Chiropractic Care
- Can provide quick pain relief from spinal adjustments
- Good for those with minor spinal misalignments
- Typically, shorter treatment sessions
❌ Limitations of Chiropractic Care
- Focuses mainly on the spine, not overall body function
- Adjustments may need to be repeated frequently
- Limited scientific evidence supporting long-term benefits
Can Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care Work Together?
Yes! Many patients benefit from both treatments. Chiropractic adjustments can provide immediate pain relief, while physiotherapy helps with long-term recovery and preventing recurrence. In some cases, a combination of both treatments may be recommended, depending on the patient’s condition and preferences.
When to See a Physiotherapist vs. a Chiropractor
See a Physiotherapist if you:
- Have muscle weakness, stiffness, or limited mobility
- Need rehabilitation after surgery or an injury
- Experience recurring pain that affects daily movement
- Want a structured exercise plan for long-term recovery
See a Chiropractor if you:
- Have sudden spinal discomfort or misalignment
- Experience nerve pain like sciatica
- Prefer manual spinal adjustments
How to Choose the Right Treatment for You
Consider:
- Your pain symptoms – Is it muscular, joint-related, or nerve-based?
- Your treatment goals – Do you want short-term relief or long-term rehabilitation?
- Your doctor’s recommendation – Consult a professional for personalised advice.
Book an Appointment Today
At RED Physiotherapy Clinic, we specialise in treating back pain with evidence-based physiotherapy techniques. Our Milton Keynes and Northampton clinics offer personalised care to help you recover faster.
📍 Same-day and next-day appointments available!
📞 Call 01604 385343 (Northampton) or 01908 713973 (Milton Keynes) or Book Online today.