If you’re suffering from neck pain, you might wonder what the difference is between a chiropractor and a physical therapist. While they both have the same goals of helping you recover your strength and function, the methods used by each can be very different. For example, physical therapists focus on rehabilitation and regaining range of motion, while chiropractors generally only treat the musculoskeletal system.
A physical therapist can use exercises and manual techniques to help you recover faster from neck pain. These methods can include stretching and strengthening exercises. They can also help improve posture and range of motion. But before you choose a particular treatment, be sure to find out what’s causing your neck pain.
A physical therapist will be able to diagnose the source of your neck pain and prescribe exercises that improve range of motion and strength. They may also offer you strategies to prevent future problems. If your condition is acute and has limited your ability to do your everyday activities, physical therapy might be your best bet.
Chiropractors view the body as interconnected and can heal itself. They use their training to analyze the neck and spine and seek areas where pressure is putting your central nervous system under undue pressure. They also perform a physical exam and sometimes use X-rays to determine the root cause of your pain. Chiropractors can also use ultrasound or electrical muscle stimulation.