Ultimately, both chiropractic and physical therapy share the same goal: to treat musculoskeletal issues and help patients feel better so they can return to their desired activities. When you consider the field of rehabilitation, chiropractors and physical therapists tend to occupy opposite ends of the spectrum. However, there is a significant amount of overlap in the middle, where both professions can collaborate to enhance patient care.

While there are many similarities, there are also many differences. Both chiropractors and physical therapists now require a doctorate degree. However, they attend different schools to obtain their respective degrees. Therefore, many of the methods, philosophies, and practices can be different, yet have the same ultimate goal. 

 The great thing with both chiropractors and physical therapists is that they never stop learning. Each degree has a requirement for continuing education hours, where professionals take classes to further their knowledge. The opportunities for learning are endless. The majority of people in the rehab field love to learn new skills, techniques, methods, and keep up with the newest research and training. Most of these classes offered for continuing education are open to physical therapists and chiropractors alike. So their graduate degrees are specific, but the continuing education courses overlap. Therefore, you may end up seeing more similarities in treatment amongst both fields.

Both chiropractors and physical therapists can take classes to train in dry needling. However, not every chiropractor or physical therapist practices this technique. Some methods are specific to either chiropractors or physical therapists. Ultimately, it depends on the individual provider and the training they have received.

Much like you would find at Smith Physical Therapy+, or any physical therapy clinic, each therapist/chiropractor has their own way of working with patients. Everyone has their own specialties. You cannot generalize all “physical therapists” based on one experience.  Likewise with “chiropractors”. 

Sometimes, working with both a physical therapist and chiropractor can work well in conjunction. A chiropractor typically focuses on the joint and works to restore its alignment. In contrast, a physical therapist emphasizes teaching appropriate strengthening and stretching exercises to maintain that alignment. Working with both may be beneficial, as a way to look at the whole picture. Though it is often recommended you start with one or the other so they can assess the response to their treatment before going to multiple providers. 

The goal as a patient seeing either a physical therapist or a chiropractor should not be to see a provider forever. The goal is to recover from your injury and get to the point where you no longer need assistance. If you are not improving to the point of independence, that may be a time to consider adding one or the other. Your provider will likely be open to this idea if they feel it is appropriate. Bring this up if you want to open that dialogue with your provider.