If you’ve ever been injured, had a sore back or neck, or were dealing with migraines or headaches, chances are that you’ve sought the help of a Physiotherapist or Osteopath. The distinction between the two can cause a lot of confusion.
It’s a very common question that our clients regularly ask. As we, here at OsteoPlace Bulimba, are both qualified Physiotherapists and Osteopaths, we’re happy to answer this question for you!
Let us start by saying that there are more similarities between the two professions than there are differences. Both Physiotherapists and Osteopaths are qualified and certified in their profession and highly trained in the treatment and management of a wide range of health conditions.
Rest assured that our Physiotherapist and Osteopaths are trained to assess the whole body, utilising a range of treatment techniques to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Which one you chose to assist with your health concerns, is ultimately up to you.
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that manages and treats acute and chronic conditions through complete assessment, diagnosis and hands-on treatment of any musculoskeletal dysfunctions. Osteopathic treatments here at OsteoPlace Bulimba are aimed to improve your body’s capacity to heal itself when affected by issues involving the skeletal or muscular systems.
“Osteopathy works with the structure and function of the body. It 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
Build on the premise that posture, injuries and lifestyle patterns compromise the anatomical structure of our bodies, Osteopaths adopt whole-body treatment approaches.
According to Osteopathy Australia, practitioners “focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit”. That means if you see an Osteopath for hip problems, they may also take a look at your ankles, knees and back. They will ask about your medical history and the factors that could be related to your injury or whatever is causing you discomfort.
Conditions that Osteopaths treat include, but are not limited to:
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck and back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Joint and muscle pain
- Pregnancy-related pain
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Overuse injuries
- Sports injuries
- Work injuries
- Pregnancy (pre & postnatal)
- Dizziness
- Neurological conditions
Osteopaths are Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine and licensed physicians and health professionals. They require a minimum of five years of university training and government registration to practice. All Osteopaths must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency.
What can you expect during an Osteotherapy consultation?
Osteopaths diagnose and treat injury using non-invasive, manual techniques, including neurological testing, massage, stretching, soft tissue manipulation and spinal adjustments. They may also recommend dietary changes, exercise routines and relaxation techniques.
These approaches include:
- Mobilisation and stretching muscles and joint capsules
- Soft tissue massage
- Manipulation for ligaments and joints
- Spinal manipulation
- Exercise therapy
- Lifestyle advice
- Patient education
What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a form of manual therapy focusing on the diagnosis, treatment and management of musculoskeletal pain, involving nerves, joints and muscles. Physiotherapists specialise in the prevention, diagnosis, management and prevention of movement disorders.
“Physiotherapy helps people affected by injury, illness or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education and advice. They maintain health for people of all ages, helping patients to manage pain and prevent disease.” Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
Whilst they’re known to treat sports injuries and neck and back pain, Physiotherapists use their expertise to treat people with a range of health conditions. This may include pregnant people, premature babies, people with brain or spinal cord damage, and those with conditions like Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis and cystic fibrosis.
Physiotherapy aims to rehabilitate and improve your ability to move and function. Physiotherapy treatments can help to regain strength, range of motion and endurance. They help to correct bad posture and muscle imbalances, can increase joint mobilisation and reduce stiffness and pain.
Physiotherapists treat a range of health conditions, including, but not limited to:
- Joint pain
- Nerve pain
- Headaches and Migraines
- Shoulder pain
- Back and neck pain
- Hip pain
- Knee pain
- Ankle pain
- Sprains & strains
- Sports injuries
- Work injuries
- Pregnancy (pre & postnatal)
- Dizziness
- Neurological conditions
Physiotherapists are licensed physicians who have, at the very minimum, a bachelor degree in Physiotherapy. However, many practising Physiotherapists have masters degrees or professional doctorates. All physiotherapists must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Registration Agency.
What can you expect during a Physiotherapy consultation?
Physiotherapy is an evidence-based clinical health science. Practitioners help alleviate pain and improve movement and muscle condition by repairing damage, reducing stiffness and increasing mobility. There is a huge array of methods Physiotherapists can use to do so.
A Physiotherapy session may involve:
- Soft tissue massage
- Stretching
- Trigger point therapy
- Joint mobilisations
- Dry needling
- Taping
- Ultrasound
- Postural correction
- Exercise prescription
- Advice and education
Your Physiotherapist can also assist you with the use of aids, crutches, walking sticks and wheelchairs.
Which one is right for you?
As you can see, there are probably more similarities than differences between Osteopaths and Physiotherapists. When trying to find the therapist that’s best suited to helping you get back on your feet, we believe that it’s most important to see someone who has significant experience in your condition – whether that’s a Physiotherapist or Osteopath.
Do your research on the Physiotherapist or Osteopath you plan to see, before booking your initial appointment. On our team page, you’ll find all the information needed to choose the right Physiotherapist or Osteopath for you.
Ready to book an appointment?
Regardless of which type of treatment you require, we will always begin with an initial consultation and a comprehensive full body assessment, before we create a detailed treatment plan. So please bring along any relevant reports or scans to your appointment.
We’re also very happy to discuss your needs and preferences with you before you make a decision. If you have any questions or concerns, simply give us a call.
