“Chiropractic is a regulated primary healthcare profession. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, and muscles), as well as the effects these disorders can have on the nervous system and general health. They have a specialist interest in neck and back pain, but when they assess patients, they take their entire physical, emotional and social wellbeing into account.” (General Chiropractic Council, 2024)
“Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.” (General Osteopathic Council, 2024)
Why should I go to a Chiropractor/Osteopath?
Chiropractors and Osteopaths can diagnose and treat a variety of musculoskeletal disorders. By helping to restore normal function to the musculoskeletal system, they can help relieve pain and discomfort from various disorders which may be a result of stress, lack of exercise, poor posture and everyday wear and tear that all of us may experience.
Both Chiropractors and Osteopaths can use a range of techniques to reduce pain, improve function and increase mobility, including hands-on manipulation of the spine. As well as manual treatment, at Borders Chiropractic we offer a package of care which includes advice on self-help, therapeutic exercises and lifestyle changes.
Treatment at Borders Chiropractic mainly involves safe, often gentle, specific spinal manipulation to free joints in the spine or other areas of the body that are not moving properly. Apart from manipulation, our practitioners may use a variety of techniques including ultrasound, exercise and acupuncture as well as advice about posture and lifestyle.
At Borders Chiropractic we don’t just aim to get rid of pain, we also try to establish the root cause and where possible prevent or reduce reoccurrence of the same problem.
Is there a difference between Chiropractic and Osteopathy?
The main difference is that Chiropractors are trained to take and read x-rays during their undergraduate training whereas Osteopaths are not trained in radiography or radiology. Apart from that, an Osteopaths therapeutic approach has more similarities to that of a Chiropractor than differences.
All of our practitioners have undertaken several years of in-depth training but will use slightly different approaches to manipulation and soft tissue techniques depending on further learning and also personal preference.
All of our team have also undertaken training and have several years of experience offering dry needling for musculoskeletal pain. In addition to this Pamella and Chris have also qualifications and training in acupuncture which offers treatment for a wider variety of conditions.
Each practitioner is also able to offer rehabilitation, exercise and lifestyle advice in addition to hands on treatment. We also use a variety of modalities including Ultrasound therapy, Laser therapy, Kinesiotaping and myofascial release where necessary.
There are no comparative studies to suggest Chiropractors are better than Osteopaths or that Osteopaths are better than Chiropractors. It really comes down to your personal choice and preference.
All our practitioners should give you excellent care. If you have any questions or would like advice, do not hestiate to contact the clinic.
