Osteopathy vs. Chiropractic

Both Osteopaths and Chiropractors tend to treat similar conditions in similar ways. This is especially the case in Britain, where the two systems have developed in the same sort of way. Generally Chiropractors tend to focus on the spine while Osteopaths also consider the muscular and joint systems

What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?

Rather than focusing on the individual parts of the body, Osteopaths and Chiropractors view the body as a whole, a self-contained, self-healing, fully interconnected unit.  The first supporter of this philosophy, Andrew Taylor Still, founded Osteopathy in America in 1874.  Twenty-one years later, a former student of Dr. Still, Daniel David Palmer, founded the Chiropractic discipline.

The philosophical and practical differences between Osteopaths and Chiropractors

The differences between Osteopathy and Chiropractic stem from a very subtle difference in philosophy. Osteopaths follow two principles based on the idea that the body is an interdependent system. The first principle, ‘the rule of the artery is supreme,’ means that a healthy blood supply can support a healthy body.  So, Osteopaths take circulation carefully into account when assessing patients. 

The second rule, ‘structure governs function,’ suggest that problems in the body’s structure can hold back it’s function.  Though the root of the word ‘osteopath’ means ‘bone,’ Osteopaths do not actually treat bones.  Instead, they use the bones as levers to bring about motion and mobility to the musculoskeletal system.  By treating these structures, Osteopaths can aid the body’s natural healing ability.

Chiropractors, however, tend to focus on the spine as the main way of relieving pain and tension in the body.  The spine consists of nerve branches and vertebrae which are bone segments that protect the spinal cord .  Nerve branches exit between these bones, carrying important messages between the brain and the rest of the body.  Because the vertebrae shift and move with everyday activity, they can ‘misalign’ and interfere with the nerve messages travelling among them. It is thought this interference causes problems, and frequently pain, throughout the body. 

The main aim for both Osteopaths and Chiropractors is to relieve aches and pain.  But, both Osteopaths and Chiropractors treat more than just bones, joints and soft tissues. By working with the nervous system and blood supply they are able to influence all of the body’s systems, making them capable of easing the symptoms of a number of conditions.  This includes asthma, stress, digestive disorders, period pain, and migraine.

How do these differences between Osteopaths and Chiropractors affect patients?

In many cases, patient experiences with Osteopaths and Chiropractors will be very similar; but, there are some differences.  When diagnosing patients, Osteopaths and Chiropractors both use observation and touch. But, Chiropractors often rely on more diagnostic procedures, such as X-rays, while Osteopaths tend to emphasise physical examination.  Osteopaths refer patients on for more diagnostic procedures only if needed.

Osteopaths use a number of techniques in order to influence the body’s healing system. These include; soft tissue and muscle work, as well as joint mobilisation and manipulation.  These techniques can help release stiffness, encourage movement and ease pain.  Specific treatment depends upon the patient’s unique circumstances.

In contrast, Chiropractors tend to focus on influencing the nervous system by using a technique called “adjustment,”. The technique is similar to Osteopathic manipulation, but the theory behind it is different.  The Chiropractic theory is that adjusting the vertebrae will allow it to return to it’s proper alignment.  This should then promote nerve transmission and pain relief.

The length of treatment is usually different between Osteopaths and Chiropractors.  Chiropractic appointments tend to be shorter as the practitioner usually just focuses on adjusting the spine, although they can focus on other areas too.  Chiropractors also tend to see patients more often. Osteopaths, however often spend more time with a patient per visit, as their focus is a little broader and their treatment more varied.  In Cameron Reid’s practice patients are then encouraged to do self help exercises and management techniques so that they continue to heal while at home.

There are a huge number of differences between practitioners of both disciplines, from what they focus on to how they apply treatment.  Each Chiropractor and each Osteopath is an individual with his or her own unique style of practice.  This is why it is important for a patient to find a practice that fits his or her unique needs.

Related link: Osteopathy - Frequently Asked Questions

Related link: Neck pain

Posted on 20 Jan 2012