Physio, chiro or osteo: What’s the difference and which is right for me?

Choosing whether to see a physiotherapist, chiropractor or osteopath can be confusing.

While all these health practitioners specialise in how the body moves and functions, and all are there to support better mobility, there are some key differences in how they help to heal.

Whether you’re suffering an injury or disability, recovering from surgery, or experiencing general aches and pains, here’s how to find out whether a physio, chiro or osteo is the right choice for you.

All physios, chiros and osteos specialise in musculoskeletal problems. That means they treat, and sometimes help prevent, issues including pain, loss of movement, balance, joint and muscle injuries and almost everything to do with how the body moves.

“The main differences between the 3 practitioners are the philosophical approaches and treatment methods they adhere to and use,” says Bupa GP Janice Tan.

“As long as you are seeing a registered provider, they all will have studied and been approved by the regulatory bodies, so they are all reputable types of healthcare providers. The one you want to see often comes down to what style of treatment you prefer.”

A physiotherapist^{1, 2} or physio is a healthcare professional who treats issues in the body primarily through manual treatment, such as massage and exercise, and helps support rehabilitation or return of movement.

Physios can help with everything from injury recovery, mobility and balance to disease. Physios can provide support with childhood development, recovering from major illness and rehabilitation, and with disability prevention.

“I’m a big fan of preventative physio, or prehab,” says Tan. “There is evidence that shows us that the right physio before a knee replacement can improve outcomes of the surgery.”

Chiropractors^{3, 4} treat the nervous system and musculoskeletal issues, including pain caused by bone and muscle conditions such as migraine.

Treatment commonly includes spinal manipulation and adjustments, which cause a cracking sound called cavitation. This happens when gases are released or moved from inside the joints as the chiropractor applies pressure.

Chiros can also provide advice around ergonomics, including sitting and standing postures and workspace set-ups.

Specialising in the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, osteopaths⁵ treat holistically, meaning that as well as providing treatment such as massage and manipulation, they might also address lifestyle factors that could be contributing to problems, such as diet, stress and exercise.

One of the biggest benefits of seeing a healthcare practitioner who specialises in how the body moves is that the treatments tend to be drug-free.

While anti-inflammatory medications might be recommended in addition, treatment plans generally focus on hands-on treatment in sessions, and how the patient can support their own recovery or improvement at home.

This might mean using DIY treatments such as hot and cold packs, gentle movement and exercise.

Note: A challenge with all 3 styles of treatment is that there is rarely a ‘quick fix’, and you may need to see your practitioner several times before the issue is resolved.

While some of the treatments offered by physios, chiros and osteos might complement each other, seeing more than one at the same time could result in conflicting advice. Even if you have the time and money to see multiple practitioners, it’s not often recommended.

“If you’re not sure which practitioner is right for you, ask your GP, who can discuss your needs and potentially recommend someone local to you,” says Tan.

Whichever practitioner you want to see, it’s important to find one who is fully registered and recognised by the governing body or association relevant to the profession.

All 3 types of practitioners work in private practice, meaning you don’t need a referral from your GP to make an appointment. However, they may also work in the public system, assisting other healthcare teams in things like surgical recovery and rehabilitation.

Medicare may provide rebates under specific circumstances. Speak to your GP if you think you need a referral for Medicare, or hold a Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) card.

Australian Physiotherapy Association is a good place to search for a physio in your local area.

Australian Chiropractors Association has information on the chiropractors near you.

Osteopathy Australia is a great resource for you to find a practitioner.