What’s The Difference Between Osteopathy and Chiropractic Care?
In one of our recent blogs, we discussed the differences between osteopathy and physiotherapy. In this article, we’re going to address the difference between osteopathy and chiropractic care, both from a treatment perspective and what it’s like to work in either field,
Osteopathy and chiropractic care are both hands-on, drug-free approaches to healthcare that focus on the musculoskeletal system. While they share similarities, they also have distinct philosophies, techniques, and applications. Understanding these differences can help patients choose the best approach for their needs and provide clarity for those considering a career in health therapy.
What are the philosophical differences?
When assessing the differences between osteopathy and chiropractic care, whether you’re seeking treatment or a healthcare career, it’s important to understand their philosophies.
Osteopathy as a whole-body approach
Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body functions as an integrated whole, and disturbances in one area can affect overall health. Osteopaths take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the interactions between the muscles, joints, nerves, and even the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
At the London School of Osteopathy (LSO), our students are trained to look beyond the isolated site of pain and assess how the entire body moves and functions together. This philosophy guides osteopathic treatment, which often includes soft tissue work, joint manipulation, stretching, and lifestyle advice.
Spine-centred chiropractic care
The main philosophy of chiropractic is centred around the alignment of the spine, and how it affects the nervous system. Chiropractors work on the premise that misalignments in the spine (known as subluxations) can interfere with nerve function, leading to pain and dysfunction. Treatment is typically centred around controlled spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae. While some chiropractors take a more holistic approach, this type of treatment remains largely focused on spinal health and nerve function.
AHP recognition
In the UK, osteopathy is officially recognised as an Allied Health Profession (AHP), meaning osteopaths are included in the group of healthcare professionals who work alongside doctors, nurses, and other medical staff within the NHS and private healthcare. Osteopaths are also primary healthcare professionals – meaning that they can make a diagnosis and plan treatment without a patient being referred by a GP.
Chiropractors are not classified as AHPs. Instead, they are regulated separately by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), and while they are primary healthcare professionals, they do not fall under the AHP umbrella like osteopaths do.
Within the NHS, patients are increasingly referred to osteopaths – as it’s officially recognised as an AHP. In contrast, patients are very rarely referred to chiropractors as it is not widely available in the public healthcare system.
What are the different treatment techniques?
The techniques used by osteopaths and chiropractors are almost entirely different. Although they both work toward the same goal – improving their patient’s discomfort – the way in which they help achieve that is vastly different.
Osteopathic techniques
Osteopaths use a variety of techniques tailored to the individual needs of the patient. These include:
- Soft tissue massage to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension.
- Joint articulation and mobilisation to increase flow and range of motion (some of these techniques may make a ‘crack’ or ‘popping’ noise).
- Stretching techniques to improve flexibility and movement.
- Cranial osteopathy which invokes subtle movements and rhythms within the body.
- Visceral osteopathy which involves manipulating the organs to improve function.
- Corrective exercises and postural advice to improve muscle and joint health.
- Lifestyle advice which may be aimed at breathing patterns, stress reduction, improved sleep or nutrition etc.
Osteopaths treat a broad range of conditions, from back pain to digestive issues and headaches, using a combination of these techniques.
Chiropractic techniques
Chiropractors focus on spinal adjustments and manipulations, often using:
- High-velocity adjustments, which involve quick, controlled thrusts to the spine.
- Instrument-assisted adjustments, such as the use of an Activator tool.
- Spinal decompression therapy, which uses traction to relieve pressure on spinal discs.
- Corrective exercises and postural advice to maintain spinal alignment.
Chiropractors primarily treat conditions related to the spine, such as back pain, sciatica, and headaches caused by spinal misalignment.
The two disciplines often treat the same types of common health issues and musculoskeletal conditions, but with different approaches:
| Condition | Osteopathy | Chiropractic |
| Back pain | Soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, spinal manipulation | Spinal adjustments and realignment |
| Neck pain | Massage, stretching, joint mobilisation | Cervical spine adjustments |
| Headaches | Cranial osteopathy, neck treatment, lifestyle advice | Cervical spine adjustments |
| Sciatica | Soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, postural advice | Spinal adjustments, traction therapy |
| Digestive issues | Visceral osteopathy, lifestyle changes | Less commonly treated |
| Sports injuries | Soft tissue treatment, joint articulation, rehabilitation exercises | Adjustments, exercise advice |
| Stress & tension | Relaxation techniques, cranial osteopathy | Spinal adjustments |
Although both disciplines are completely legitimate methods to treat pain, the way that osteopathy looks at the body as a whole can positively affect the patient on a longer-term basis.
Training
If you’re looking at starting a healthcare career, or moving across from one, we’ll summarise the training requirements needed to qualify.
Osteopathy
In the UK, osteopaths must complete a 3.5 to 4 year degree, such as the MOst (Master of Osteopathy) or BOst (Bachelor of Osteopathy). The GOsC stipulates a minimum of 1000hrs of clinical training. At the London School of Osteopathy, students gain extensive hands-on experience in clinical settings alongside theoretical learning in anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
Chiropractic
Chiropractors complete a four year degree, focusing heavily on spinal health and nervous system function. Their training includes a significant amount of radiography and diagnostic imaging, as chiropractors often use X-rays to assess spinal alignment. There is no minimum hours of clinical training set by the GCC.
Choosing your healthcare career
If you’re considering a career in healthcare, or looking for a career change, understanding these distinctions will help you in making the decision.
As teachers and osteopathic clinicians ourselves, we admit we may be a little biased. But if you’re interested in a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, focusing on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms, a career in osteopathy could be for you.
Become an Osteopath with the LSO
Become job-ready on graduation with our hands-on, practical course that translates directly into your new osteopathic career. To find out more, discover our college or find out about our various osteopathy study pathways to suit you.
