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August 3, 2021

The Difference Between a Chiropractor and Physical Therapist

The Difference Between a Chiropractor and Physical Therapist

Chiropractors and physical therapists (PTs) treat many of the same types of injuries and pain conditions, which can make it difficult for you to determine which specialist may benefit you the most. At Team Elite Chiropractic, our goal is to treat and reduce your pain in as few sessions as possible by providing comprehensive treatment.

Here’s more about the similarities and differences between a chiropractor and PT.

What Are Key Similarities Between a Chiropractor and PT?

Chiropractors and PTs offer many services that overlap, including cupping, Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization,  and Active Release Technique (ART). Both specialists treat many of the same conditions, focus on pain reduction and management, and use a variety of manual therapies to promote your recovery. Chiropractors and PTs will also work with you to develop a personalized at-home therapy plan that usually includes stretching, stability exercises, and foam roller and tennis ball rolling.

What Are Key Differences Between a Chiropractor and PT?

Traditionally, Chiropractors generally focus on issues related to headaches and pain in the spine, while PTs focus on rehabilitating the entire body. At Team Elite Chiropractic, we specialize in the prevention and treatment of sports injuries. We have the ability and expertise to treat a wide variety of sports injuries from head to toe and help athletes and players get back to their usual activities as quickly as possible.

Chiropractors are trained to perform adjustments, while many PTs are not. Instead, PTs focus on using stretches and exercises that improve your mobility. Some PTs choose to further their education to learn how to do adjustments and specific mobilizations, though courses usually take place over a weekend compared to three years of training for chiropractors.

PTs are often more qualified than chiropractors to treat patients with vertigo and head injuries and those who are recovering from surgery — especially during the early stages when the primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and regain mobility and range of motion. PTs also know how to work with and navigate around stitches and open wounds without delaying or interfering with the patient’s healing.

Do You Need a Chiropractor or a PT?

With the Team Elite Chiropractic approach, we can provide you with many of the same treatment benefits as those provided by a PT, with additional chiropractic components that focus on fast and long-term pain relief. If, at any point, we think a PT would be more suitable for you based on your condition and recovery needs, we will be more than happy to refer you to a quality and reputable PT who can help.

Contact us today at 858-633-8036 or visit our website to book an appointment.


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Scripps Ranch
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Fitness Quest 10
9972 Scripps Ranch Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92131

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Broadway Athletic Club
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San Diego, CA 92101

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LIVKRAFT
7710 Fay Ave
La Jolla, CA 92037

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