PHYSIO vs OSTEO vs CHIRO vs MYO
Always a common question… what is the difference between physiotherapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and myotherapists? The reality is, lines are blurred, and all 4 professions specialise in helping people with lots of the same conditions.
Generally speaking, myotherapists may have a bias towards a range of remedial massage techniques, chiropractors may have a bias towards spinal manipulation, osteopaths may have a bias towards wholistic manual therapy, and physiotherapists may have more of a bias towards a combination of manual therapy and rehabilitative exercise. However this is a very general overview, as methods of practice differentiate greatly not only between each profession but within each profession.
Unfortunately there seems to be some unspoken rivalries that exist between our professions, which only confuses the public and creates disharmony in the world of health care. I personally have several clients who also seek treatment from an Osteo/Chiro/Myo as well as myself. If that is what works best for that particular individual, then why change it?
At the end of the day, all of these professions are in the business of helping people, and should all have the same goal – to appropriately educate people about their body/condition, to minimise pain wherever possible and to help people achieve optimal physical health.
Would love to hear your experiences between the different professions… let us know what you think!
Chris Bryceson
B. Health Sciences (Physio), APAM
CB Physiotherapy