What Is the Difference Between an Osteopath, Physiotherapist and Chiropractor?

WHAT IS OSTEOPATHY?

Osteopathy is a healthcare practice which recognises the important link between the structure of the body itself, and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on how your skeleton, muscles, joints, nerves, connective tissue and internal organs function together as a whole body unit.

WHAT DOES AN OSTEOPATH DO?

Osteopaths are allied health professionals working predominantly with our hands using a wide variety of treatments such as massage, stretching, repetitive movements, mobilisation and-or manipulation. We can assist in identifying important types of dysfunction in your body through a thorough examination taking your history and general movements.

Most of our clients are seeking help with sporting injuries, neck/back pain, headaches and migraines, whiplash, postural problems, sciatica, knee and heel pain, shin splints, arthritis and occupational injuries.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN OSTEOPATH, A PHYSIOTHERAPIST AND A CHIROPRACTOR?

The distinction between osteopathy, physiotherapy and chiropractic can be extremely confusing at the best of times. They are all usually non-invasive, drug-free, manual techniques with the aim to improve your physical health and wellbeing.

The primary difference between physiotherapy and osteopathy is based around the idea that a Physiotherapist will focus on one particular area which surrounds the injury or joint whereas as an Osteopath, we look at the entire body which gives us a better idea of how different areas of the body are linked with each other.

The major difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor is that the latter is primarily focused on the spine, joints and to a lesser extent, muscles. Osteopaths have a broader approach and tend to treat a larger area to make sure that the problem is completely resolved.

If you have lost faith or just getting a little frustrated with your Physiotherapist or Chiropractor, we would recommend you speak with one of our qualified Osteopaths since we will most likely have a different approach altogether.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST OSTEO SESSION?

Our assessment begins with us noting down your full case history as well as an initial examination. We will ask you to perform a simple series of movements and your osteopath will identify any areas of weakness or excessive strain through your body, mostly with a hands-on approach.

At the Castle Hill Osteopathic Clinic, we have three qualified Osteopaths in Dr Luke Gillogly, Dr Steven Spaeavec and Dr Samantha Sherrington sharing a wealth of combined experience in the field of osteopathy. Don’t worry, if you’re sore or tender in any particular area, we will exercise care to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

Are you looking for Osteopathy in the Hills District of Sydney? The Castle Hill Osteo clinic is open from Monday through Saturday so call us on (02) 9680 9940 to schedule an appointment today!