Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, Osteopath and Myotherapist

Physiotherapist, Chiropractor, Osteopath and Myotherapist

A frequently asked question is what the difference is between the roles of physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, and Myotherapists.

 So, what is the difference?  In November 2020 an article by Charlotte Ganderton and Matthew King was published on the ABC website addressing this very topic, and the fact that all four types of therapy come highly recommended to assist people in managing their aches and pains.  To sum up the article – 

In Australia, physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors have extensive university training and are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).  Myotherapists complete an advanced diploma or bachelor’s degree in myotherapy or "musculoskeletal therapy” but are not registered with AHPRA.

The article goes on to state that a  physiotherapist   assesses your problem, provides a diagnosis, and helps you understand what's wrong while considering your general health, activities, and lifestyle.  They treat your complaint with a variety of "active" therapies, such as exercise programs and hydrotherapy.  

A chiropractor works on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones and joints, and the effect on the nervous system.

They have an emphasis on passive manual treatments, including joint and soft-tissue manipulation, and spinal adjustments.  They may also prescribe exercises to help you rehabilitate from your condition as well as provide dietary advice.

An  osteopath focuses on the muscular and nervous systems, assessing the structure of the body to determine its impact on function.  Treatment involves a combination of active and passive therapies, including joint manipulation and mobilisation, massage, as well as postural advice and exercise programs.

Finally, a myotherapist works to assist your aches and pains by focusing on the muscles and joints. They offer a range of mostly "hands-on" treatments including dry needling, massage, and joint mobilisation, but can also prescribe exercises.

Students can access the full article at Physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath and myotherapist: what's the difference and which one should I visit?