What Is the Difference Between a Physical Therapist and a Chiropractor?

ByRobert Donaldson

Discover the key differences between a physical therapist and a chiropractor from Dr. Robert Donaldson, PT, DC, a physical therapist and a chiropractor. Learn how physical therapy and chiropractic care vary in approach, techniques, and benefits to find the best treatment for your needs. Explore the unique roles of PTs and chiropractors today.

Welcome to the Buena Physical Therapy website.

Understanding the distinctions between physical therapy and chiropractic care can help you make informed decisions about your health. Both professionals aim to alleviate pain and improve mobility, but their methods and philosophies differ.

I am both a physical therapist and a chiropractor.


I became a physical therapist in 1975 and a chiropractor in 1995.
At the time I became a chiropractor, I could only find seven other individuals in the United States who had this dual licensure. I could find none that was a physical therapist with the OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) designation and was also a chiropractor.

This post will explore the primary differences between a physical therapist and a chiropractor, shedding light on their specific roles, techniques, and the conditions they typically treat. Discover which approach best suits your needs as I clarify the unique benefits of each discipline.

Difference Between a Physical Therapist and a Chiropractor

Understanding the difference between a physical therapist and a chiropractor is crucial for patients seeking care. Physical therapy and chiropractic care both aim to help patients alleviate pain and improve mobility, but there are distinct differences between the two.

The biggest difference when selecting a physical therapist or chiropractor, in my opinion, is to determine the philosophy of the individual.

Physical Therapists:

Most physical therapists are generalists, but some specialize.

Physical therapists have ten specialties within their profession, and each has the opportunity to obtain a certificate of minimal requirements issued by the American Physical Therapy Association.

These specialties are:

  • Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Clinical Specialist (CCS)
  • Geriatric Clinical Specialist (GCS)
  • Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
  • Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS)
  • Pediatric Clinical Specialist (PCS)
  • Oncology Specialist
  • Women’s Health Specialist (WCS)
  • Electrophysiologic Clinical Specialist (ECS)
  • Sports Clinical Specialist (SCS)
  •  Wound Management Specialist

Physical therapist generalists, who do not wish to meet the rigorous requirements of certification, may choose to educate themselves in these areas through continuing education seminars that are usually multiday events. I have attended many over the years and was fortunate to have been trained by individuals who are now icons within the profession.

I specialized in orthopedics with the designation of PT, OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist)

Orthopedic physical therapists, credentialed or generalist, lean heavily on the medical model of treatment, focusing primarily on manual therapy techniques and modalities (techniques that produce physiological tissue changes using various wave-producing mechanisms such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and many more modalities).

Chiropractors:

Like physical therapists, most chiropractors are generalists, but they also have the opportunity to earn a specific specialty designation issued by the Americal Chiropractic Association, which also recognizes some certifications from independent boards.

These specialties are:

Again, like physical therapists, many chiropractic generalists focus on areas of interest and become experts in their area of interest through continuing education seminars.

These areas of focused interest include, but are not limited to:

  • Naturopathic chiropractic:
  • Occupational chiropractic:
  • Pain management chiropractic:
  • Prenatal chiropractic:
  • Pediatric chiropractic:
  • Sports chiropractic:

Unlike physical therapists, chiropractors have two main philosophies that guide them in their decision-making process:

  • Innate intelligence
    • This philosophy holds that the body can heal itself as long as there are no nervous symptoms impingements. Making sure that all joints are correctly aligned and functioning normally is the only intervention one needs for any abnormal symptoms.
  • Biopsychosocial model of pain
    • This philosophy understands and uses the tool of manipulation but also incorporates chiropractic tools to treat biological factors such as muscle strains and herniated discs, nutritional factors such as diet advice, and social issues such as work modifications to address the problem at hand.

Before choosing a healthcare provider of any kind, these are some of the considerations one should know to ask about when deciding on a healthcare provider to guide you through a time of need, be that PT, DC, or MD.

Physical therapists are not allowed to see a patient without a diagnosis and referral coming from a primary physician, or a least can see the patient a limited number of times before needing an MD’s prescription. They are considered secondary providers and do not have the licensure privilege to order lab work or imaging (x-rays or MRI).
Many insurance companies will not cover physical therapy costs without a physician’s prescription.

Chiropractors, in all states, are considered primary care physicians and can see patients without an MD’s prescription. They are diagnosticians, able to order any lab or imaging they need to make the diagnoses and start a treatment plan.

One thing I can tell you for sure:
Physical Therapy School did not teach me anything about the use of the tool manipulation, how and what lab work to order, or what kind of imaging I would need to request for a specific issue.
Chiropractic school did not teach me anything about recovery from a surgery or how to modify manipulation after a surgery

In summary, while both physical therapy and chiropractic care aim to improve patient well-being, understanding the differences between the two can help patients make more informed decisions about their healthcare options.

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists play a crucial role in the health care industry, focusing on improving patient quality of life through various forms of physical therapy. They help treat a wide range of issues, including injuries, medical conditions, and chronic illnesses. A physical therapist works closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans aimed at enhancing mobility, strength, and overall health. The primary goal is to restore function and prevent disability by addressing issues related to muscles, joints, and the skeletal system.

Physical therapists utilize a variety of techniques and tools to help treat their patients. These may include exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation. By utilizing a holistic approach, they can effectively manage and alleviate pain, improve flexibility, and enhance muscle strength.

Physical therapy is often essential in post-operative recovery, helping patients regain functionality and return to their daily activities.

In addition to physical rehabilitation, physical therapists play a significant role in educating patients on how to maintain their health and prevent future injuries. They provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, and body mechanics to ensure long-term wellness.

A physical therapist will also collaborate with other medical professionals to deliver comprehensive care, ensuring each patient receives the most effective treatment. The unique approach of physical therapy allows for individualized care tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or just looking to improve your overall health, physical therapy offers a versatile and effective solution.

What does a chiropractor do?

A chiropractor is a healthcare professional specializing in diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal problems, with a key focus on the spine. Chiropractors emphasize the relationship between the spinal structure and the overall health of the body.

Their chiropractic care focuses on managing pain and other symptoms using noninvasive techniques. By employing spinal adjustments, chiropractors aim to treat misalignments and restore proper function to affected areas. Typically, chiropractic treatments involve the application of controlled, sudden force to a spinal joint to improve physical function.

Chiropractors treat a variety of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint problems. They often emphasize a holistic approach, considering the health of the whole person rather than just targeting specific symptoms. This method frequently includes advice on lifestyle, exercise, and nutrition to support overall well-being and prevent future injuries.

It’s not uncommon for chiropractic care to be integrated with other therapies to achieve optimal results. Management of acute injuries and chronic conditions often sees chiropractors collaborating with other healthcare providers. As such, they play a crucial role in the broader healthcare system, offering an alternative to invasive procedures and medications.

Whether you’ve suffered an injury or you’re seeking to maintain optimal health, chiropractic care provides a natural approach to pain relief and functional improvement. By focusing on spinal and muscle health, chiropractors help patients achieve a balanced state of health and well-being.

What to Expect From Physical Therapy

When attending physical therapy, patients can expect a comprehensive and individual approach to their care. Physical therapists are well-trained professionals who assess each patient’s unique condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.

During your therapy sessions, you’ll likely engage in a variety of exercises and activities designed to improve your strength, range of motion, and overall function. Each session is tailored to your specific needs, and physical therapists continuously monitor your progress to ensure you are meeting your goals.

Patients often start with a detailed evaluation, where the physical therapist will ask about their medical history, perform physical assessments, and discuss their personal goals.

The ultimate goal of physical therapy is to help patients regain independence and improve their quality of life. Through consistent therapy, patients can expect to address pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further injury. Therapists employ an individual approach, combining manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, and patient education to ensure effective outcomes.

Patients should also expect to receive guidance on lifestyle changes and exercises they can do at home to complement their in-clinic sessions. By fostering a strong partnership between patient and therapist, physical therapy aims for long-term healing and improved physical health. When engaging in physical therapy, you can be confident that physical therapists are committed to providing an evidence-based, patient-centered approach. This holistic care structure ensures that patients not only see improvement during their therapy sessions but also maintain those benefits in their daily lives.

What to Expect From a Chiropractor

When visiting a chiropractor, you can expect a comprehensive approach to improving your overall health and well-being. Chiropractors specialize in spinal health, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

Chiropractic care primarily involves hands-on spinal adjustments and other noninvasive techniques aimed at relieving pain, improving mobility, and enhancing the body’s natural ability to heal. During your initial visit, the chiropractor will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests to better understand your condition.

Upon diagnosing the issue, the chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan often includes a series of spinal adjustments to correct misalignments that may be causing back pain or other health issues.

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractic care may involve other therapies like soft tissue manipulation, stretching exercises, and lifestyle counseling (including diet) to improve overall health and prevent future problems.

Chiropractic treatments are known for being safe and effective, making them a popular choice for pain management and enhancing overall health.

Patients should be aware that consistency is key when it comes to chiropractic care. Regular visits may be necessary to achieve optimal results and maintain spinal health. Chiropractors are skilled in identifying the root causes of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues, providing patients with natural, noninvasive solutions. 

I personally do not put my chiropractic patients on a never-ending routine of regular manipulations. Once the joint is functioning correctly in range of motion, the muscles are strong and engaging appropriately, the ligaments are limiting motion correctly, and the patient no longer has complaints, I am done with this episode.

Patients frequently ask me, “When should I come back?”
My answer is always the same: “How would I know? This problem may have been solved forever. One day, when you wake up and your body says ‘Maybe it is time to go see Bob again, give me a call’”.
That seems to work best for my patients.

Many patients report significant improvements in pain levels, mobility, and quality of life under chiropractic care. So, if you’re experiencing back pain or looking to improve your overall health, a visit to a chiropractor could be an effective part of your healthcare regimen.

Physical Therapy vs Chiropractic Training

When it comes to understanding the differences between physical therapy and chiropractic, it’s essential to look at the formal education they receive.

Both physical therapists and chiropractors undergo extensive training, but their paths diverge significantly.

A physical therapist typically completes a master’s or doctoral program in physical therapy, which includes courses in anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise physiology. This formal education not only covers a wide range of topics but also involves hands-on clinical experience to help treat various injuries.

On the other hand, chiropractors often pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree. Their education focuses more on differential diagnosis, the musculoskeletal system, spinal adjustments, and chiropractic techniques. This specialized training usually includes internships and residency programs that provide real-world experience in chiropractic medicine.

The emphasis on differential diagnosis, spinal health, and manual adjustments sets chiropractic apart from physical therapy. While both professions aim to relieve pain and improve function, the methodologies and skills they acquire differ.

Physical therapy often incorporates therapeutic exercises and modalities to promote healing, whereas chiropractic centers on spinal adjustments and manipulative therapy. Understanding these distinctions can help patients decide which form of care is best suited for their medical needs.

Both physical therapists and chiropractors need to pass national board exams to practice, ensuring that they meet high standards in their respective fields. So, whether you’re dealing with an injury or looking for ways to improve your overall health, knowing the differences in training can be crucial in making an informed choice.

What are the Similarities Between Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care?

When considering physical therapy and chiropractic care, it’s natural to wonder about their similarities. Both disciplines aim to improve a patient’s health and quality of life. They focus on pain management and employ various treatment techniques to achieve their goals.

A key similarity is that both physical therapists and chiropractors are skilled in addressing issues related to the back and spine. Patients with back pain often seek treatment from these professionals, who are equipped with the resources needed to help alleviate discomfort.

Both physical therapy and chiropractic care involve personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs. These plans may incorporate a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and other modalities to treat the root cause of pain and improve overall function.

Patient education is another commonality; both physical therapists and chiropractors emphasize the importance of teaching patients about their conditions and how to manage symptoms effectively at home. 

Moreover, both fields are grounded in a holistic approach to health, considering the entire body rather than just isolated symptoms. 

Collaboration is also a hallmark of both professions. They often work alongside other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for their patients.

This multidisciplinary approach helps to optimize treatment outcomes and support long-term health goals. In summary, physical therapy and chiropractic care share several similarities, including their focus on pain management, individualized treatment plans, and a holistic approach to health.

Patients seeking relief from back pain or other musculoskeletal issues can find effective treatment through both disciplines. Understanding these similarities can help patients make informed decisions about which type of care is best suited for their needs.

What are the Key Differences Between Physical Therapy and Chiropractic?

The difference between physical therapy and chiropractic care lies in their approaches to treatment, medical techniques, and goals for patient recovery. While both professions aim to alleviate pain and improve functionality, the methods they use differ.

Physical therapy, often initiated after surgery, accident, or injury, focuses on comprehensive rehabilitation through exercises, stretches, and other modalities designed to restore movement and strength.

In contrast, chiropractic care mainly involves manual adjustments to address musculoskeletal issues, particularly spine alignment. One of the primary differences between physical therapy and chiropractic care is that physical therapists use a variety of techniques to improve overall mobility, sometimes incorporating electrical stimulation or ultrasound.

Chiropractors, on the other hand, primarily use spinal manipulations to correct misalignments. The primary philosophy of most chiropractors is that most human ailments are the result of abnormal pressures on nerves, and with correct spinal alignment, the body’s innate healing will resolve the symptoms and improve overall health.

Although both fields require extensive medical training, the educational paths also highlight the difference between these professions. Physical therapy programs often emphasize anatomy, physiology, and evidence-based practice, while chiropractic education focuses more on differential diagnosis, imaging, spinal anatomy, and adjustment techniques.

Another key difference between physical therapists and chiropractors is their approach to treatment plans. Physical therapy treatments are typically goal-oriented, with specific progress markers and discharge patients to home-exercise programs once the set goals have been achieved.

Chiropractic care often involves more office-based regular adjustments over a longer period of time.

Understanding the differences between physical therapy and chiropractic care can help patients choose the most appropriate treatment for their specific needs. This knowledge can also inform individuals about what to expect from each type of care and how it can impact their overall well-being.

How to Choose Between a Physical Therapist and a Chiropractor

When deciding whether to see a physical therapist or a chiropractor, it’s essential to consider your specific health needs and treatment goals. Both professionals offer distinct approaches to pain management and recovery, and understanding these differences can help guide your choice.

Physical therapists focus on improving mobility, strength, and overall function. They employ various forms of therapy, including exercises, stretches, and manual techniques, tailored to address specific health issues and enhance patient well-being.

On the other hand, chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the spine and musculoskeletal system, often through spinal adjustments and other chiropractic techniques. It’s important to note that the nature of your pain and the underlying cause can significantly impact your choice.

For instance, if you’re dealing with chronic back pain, chiropractors can provide spine-focused manipulations that may offer relief.

Physical therapists, however, might be more beneficial if your pain is due to muscle weakness or a recent injury, offering comprehensive rehabilitation plans that improve your long-term health.

Additionally, consider the professional’s approach to treatment. Chiropractic care might align more closely with individuals seeking hands-on, immediate adjustments, while physical therapy might appeal to those who prefer an active, exercise-based recovery.

Scheduling a consultation with both a physical therapist and a chiropractor can provide better insight into which approach resonates most with you.

Ultimately, your personal preferences, the nature of your injury, and your long-term health goals should play a crucial role in this decision-making process.

Being a physical therapist and a chiropractic doctor has been a huge benefit to my patients and has made me a much better healthcare provider.

Paying It Forward

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the primary difference between a physical therapist and a chiropractor?
A: The primary difference lies in their approach to treatment. Physical therapists focus on improving physical function through exercises, stretches, and various modalities like electrical stimulation and ultrasound. They design personalized therapy plans addressing the entire body’s needs. Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues with a strong focus on spinal adjustments and manipulations to restore balance to the spine and nervous system.

Q: What techniques do physical therapists use to treat patients?
A: Physical therapists employ a variety of techniques, including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as heat, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation. They create individualized treatment plans designed to enhance mobility, strength, and overall physical function, often for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions.

Q: When should I consider seeing a chiropractor instead of a physical therapist?
A: If you are experiencing back or neck pain and believe your issues may be related to spinal misalignments, a chiropractor may be beneficial. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to correct misalignments and aim to enhance overall health by focusing on the spine. On the other hand, if your pain or mobility issues stem from muscle weakness, recent injuries, or require a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, seeing a physical therapist might be more appropriate.

Q: Are the educational and training requirements different for physical therapists and chiropractors?
A: Yes, the educational paths are different. Physical therapists typically complete a master’s or doctoral program in physical therapy, encompassing courses in anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise physiology, along with hands-on clinical experience. Chiropractors pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, focusing on differential diagnosis, imaging, the musculoskeletal system, spinal adjustments, and chiropractic techniques. Both fields require passing national board exams to practice.

Q: Can physical therapy and chiropractic care be combined for treatment?
A: Absolutely. Combining physical therapy and chiropractic care can be highly effective, especially for managing acute injuries and chronic conditions. For example, patients might receive spinal adjustments from a chiropractor to correct misalignments and improve mobility, while also engaging in physical therapy exercises and modalities to strengthen muscles and enhance overall function. This integrated approach can optimize treatment outcomes and support long-term health goals.

Q: How do physical therapists and chiropractors educate patients to maintain health and prevent future injuries?
A: Both physical therapists and chiropractors emphasize patient education. Physical therapists often provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, and exercises that patients can perform at home to complement their in-clinic sessions. Chiropractors may offer advice on lifestyle changes, exercises, and nutritional tips to support overall well-being and spinal health. Education is a fundamental aspect in both fields to help patients manage symptoms effectively and prevent future injuries.

Robert Donaldson, PT, DC.
Physical Therapist with 50 years of experience in orthopedic rehabilitation.
Dr. of Chiropractic with 30 years of experience.