Chiropractic vs. Physical Therapy

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Chiropractic | Orthopedics | Rehabilitation

Life is Motion

Throughout Maryland (PRWEB) March 19, 2013

Recently, I have had several patients’ medical doctors refer them to physical therapy (for the same condition that they see me, a chiropractor) – and so the patients have asked ME the question: What’s the difference between physical therapists and chiropractors?

Answer:

1) Physical therapists are therapists who apply physical therapies as per the prescription of a medical doctor. Chiropractors have more autonomy than physical therapists. We ARE doctors, who diagnose, treat, and manage patients who have musculoskeletal conditions with a specialization of the spine.

2) A licensed chiropractor has spent 2-4 years MORE than a physical therapist in the classroom.

3) Both professions utilize corrective exercises in the treatment of a patient’s condition.

4) Both professions utilize “physical therapies” such as electric muscle stimulation, ultrasound, ice/heat, stretching, strengthening, etc…

5) Chiropractors are recognized as the authority of “adjustments” – grade 5 HVLA joint manipulations. Physical therapists are taught to adjust, but most do not.

6) In the state of Maryland, chiropractors were licensed as a profession before physical therapists. Since then, chiropractors can obtain an addendum to their license called “Physical Therapy Privileges,” which recognizes and expands our scope of practice to that of a licensed physical therapist.

7) Chiropractors have cheaper malpractice insurance.

8) Physical therapists have more training/expertise in the rehabilitation of surgeries. Chiropractors have more training/expertise in overall wellness.

However you define it, physical therapy and rehabilitation have been a part of chiropractic since its beginning.

SMART Medical is a full service orthopedic, chiropractic and rehabilitation practice specializing in personal injury, worker's compensation and sports injury.

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