What is Chiropractic therapy?Ĭhiropractors are known as spinal health professionals, with focus on techniques of adjustment (sometimes they ‘move’ areas that are not moving properly) to help create bio-mechanical correction. Physiotherapists can send their patients to have x-rays and untrasounds to assist in diagnosis. In South Africa, physiotherapists are first line practioners that can diagnose and do not need a referral from the GP. Some may even do home visits where patients are unable to travel. Physio therapists work in Private practice, Private hospitals, Public hospitals, Care homes and Frailcare units in South Africa. ![]() Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Women’s Health, Neurology, Cardiovascular & Pulmonary, Medico-legal, Occupational health. It is optional to be a member of the South African Society of Physiotheapists (SASP). Physiotherapy Instrument Mobilisation (PIM)Īll accredited Physiotherapists have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy, completed a year of a community service and are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).Joint mobilisation (gentle gliding) techniques.Electrical stimulation to help muscles contract that cannot do so effectively on their own.Some of the treatments and techniques that physiotherapists use: Physiotherapists more often put the healing in your hands by suggesting exercises to improve your mobility and posture. Paediatric physiotherapists help with gross motor developmental delays. People are often referred to physio for a treatment of back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, movement problems resulting from a stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease, rehabilitation after a heart attack, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis. Physiotherapists traditionally use mobilization techniques such as Maitland, Mulligan and McKenzie. They often provide exercise programs to improve mobility, and also use massage, stretching and electrotherapy modalities. Physiotherapists aim for joints and muscles to work to their full potential. Physiotherapy helps with improving the quality of life by supporting tissue repair, reducing stiffness and pain and increasing mobility. They may also prescribe assistive devices, such as walkers or SIJ belts.īut let us take a closer look… What is Physiotherapy? Physical therapists are all about exercise and emphasize independence and return to function.Ĭhiropractors focus on aligning the neuromusculoskeletal system while physiotherapists focus on overall biomechanics, reducing pain and improving mobility through movement correction and exercise plans. Regardless of the title, it is important to find the individual practitioner that suits you.Ĭhiropractors are all about spinal manipulation and you will be required to come back for maintenance sporadically. The short answerīoth, chiropratic and physiotherapy, can be used to address conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, frozen shoulder, headaches (certain types), tennis elbow, knee pain, hip pain, ankle injuries and many more. ![]() ![]() While they both work in slightly different ways, they treat many similar conditions and focus on patients through a hands-on approach. Today we are looking at two different therapeutic areas and in the beginning we will emphasize that there is no right or wrong practitioner. We asked Alex to write the answer to this FAQ in order to get an unbiased response, however, there is some input from us as well as a South African chiropractor in order to get the local information right. He is also an aspiring health writer and host to a wellness website called Tips4Wellness. ![]() This is a guest blog by Alex Bar, a health coordinator from Backs in Action, a centre in North America with both physios and chiros.
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