Therapy vs Chiropractic

Physical Therapy vs Chiropractic Care: What’s the Difference?

Wondering what's the difference between physical therapy and chiropractic care, and which is right for you? Learn the key differences between these two treatments, their unique benefits, and how to choose the best option for your needs.

OrthoRehab

August 18, 2025

Dr. Randy Vasquez

Your physical health plays a vital role in your overall well-being.

When you’re dealing with pain—whether it’s from a recent injury, chronic condition, or everyday wear and tear—it can be tough to know where to turn. Two common forms of treatment you might hear about are physical therapy and chiropractic care. While they may seem similar at a glance (both focus on musculoskeletal health), they have different approaches and goals.

So, what’s the difference? Let’s break it down!

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy (PT) focuses on restoring movement, improving strength, and reducing pain through exercise, manual therapy, education, and modalities like heat, cold, or electrical stimulation.

Physical therapists work with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis or back pain. The ultimate goal? To help you regain function and prevent future injuries.

Common PT Techniques:

Therapeutic exercises for strength and flexibility
Manual therapy (hands-on mobilization of joints and soft tissues)
Postural training and ergonomics education
Neuromuscular re-education
Modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation (as needed)

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care focuses primarily on the alignment of the spine and nervous system. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments (or manipulations) to correct misalignments, which they believe can relieve pain, improve function, and support the body’s natural ability to heal.

While chiropractic care often focuses on spinal health, many chiropractors also address joint issues in other parts of the body.

Common Chiropractic Techniques:

Spinal adjustments/manipulations
Soft tissue therapy (in some practices)
Lifestyle advice, including posture and ergonomics
Nutritional counseling (varies by practitioner)

Key Differences Between Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care

Physical Therapy vs Chiropractic: What is the best choice?

The best choice often depends on your condition, goals, and preferences:

Recovering from surgery or an injury?
→ Physical therapy is designed to help you rebuild strength, flexibility, and function.
Experiencing back or neck pain from poor posture or spinal misalignment?
→ Chiropractic care might offer relief through spinal adjustments.
Dealing with chronic pain or recurring injuries?
→ You might benefit from both approaches working together! Many people see a physical therapist for exercise-based rehab and a chiropractor for spinal adjustments.

Pro Tip: Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine which treatment (or combination) is right for you.

How We Can Help

At OrthoRehab, we specialize in physical therapy focused on personalized care plans to help you recover, strengthen, and move better. If you’re unsure whether physical therapy is right for your situation, reach out to us—we’re happy to answer your questions or coordinate care with other healthcare providers.

Ready to take the next step toward feeling better? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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