Osteopath, Chiropractor, or Physio? An Exeter Osteopath Explains the Difference

When you’re in pain, whether it's a stiff neck, a bad back, or an aching joint, the path to recovery can seem confusing. One of the most common questions people ask is, "Should I see an osteopath, a chiropractor, or a physiotherapist?"

As Urban Health, it's a question we hear a lot. While all three professions are dedicated to helping you get out of pain and move better, our philosophy and approach are distinct.

The Holistic Osteopathic View

The foundational principle of osteopathy is that your body is an interconnected whole. We believe that for your body to work well, its structure must also function well.

This means we don't just focus on the part that hurts. We look for the root cause of your pain.

For example, your nagging lower back pain might not be a 'back problem' at all. It could be linked to an old ankle injury that changed the way you walk, or poor posture from your desk setup that's causing stiffness in your upper back and hips. Your body is incredibly good at compensating, and often, pain is the final symptom of a long-standing imbalance.

An osteopathy treatment is therefore holistic. We look at your whole body including your joints, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues to see how they all work together.

How Does This Compare?

While there is a lot of overlap, here’s a general guide:

• Physiotherapy: Often focuses on rehabilitation, particularly after a specific injury or surgery. The treatment is frequently centred on specific exercises to strengthen the affected area.

• Chiropractic: Often focuses primarily on the spine and its relationship with the nervous system, using specific adjustments (manipulations) to improve alignment.

Osteopathy uses a wide variety of hands-on techniques tailored to you. This can include gentle soft-tissue massage, articulation (moving your joints through their range of motion), and, when appropriate, manipulation (the 'click' or 'pop').

Which One is Right for You?

The "best" choice often comes down to the practitioner and the approach that resonates with you. The osteopathic approach is ideal for those who want to understand the why behind their pain, not just treat the symptom.

Here at Urban Health, we take the time to listen to your story and assess your whole body. If you're based in Exeter or Heavitree, or in the surrounding area and looking for a specialist, if you're tired of recurring pain, an osteopathic assessment here at our clinic could be the key. We don't just want to get you better, we want to help you stay better.

If you're unsure, feel free to book a consultation. We can assess your specific needs and help you find the right path forward.