Whether you’re dealing with pain from your last pickleball match or an injury from an auto accident, you might wonder whether chiropractic care or physical therapy is the right choice for you. While both are highly effective and natural, they have different approaches and benefits to consider. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which treatment is best for your condition—or if a combination of both might be the answer.
Chiropractic Care: Focused on Spinal Health
Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and its relationship to the nervous system.
“As chiropractors, we use manual adjustments to correct misalignments, relieve pain, and improve mobility,” says Dr. Jake.
Chiropractic treatment is highly effective for conditions like:
- Lower back pain
- Neck pain
- Sciatica
- Headaches and migraines
- Joint discomfort
By restoring proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care helps your body heal naturally. Many patients report immediate relief after a chiropractic adjustment, especially when dealing with spinal-related issues.
Physical Therapy: Targeting Mobility and Recovery
Physical therapy focuses on restoring movement and function. It’s often used for recovery from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions. Physical therapists like Crystal Luxmore design personalized exercise and rehabilitation plans to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support long-term healing.
“Common issues we can treat with PT include sports injuries, post-surgical rehabilitation, arthritis, sprains, strains, and muscle tears,” says Crystal. Physical therapists may also use modalities such as massage, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to aid recovery.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing between chiropractic care and physical therapy depends on your specific condition:
Chiropractic care is ideal for spinal misalignments, nerve pain, and issues related to the nervous system. PT is often better for rehabilitation after surgery, sports injuries, or long-term muscle and joint conditions.
In some cases, combining both treatments can lead to optimal results. Chiropractic care can address immediate pain relief, while physical therapy works on long-term recovery and strengthening.
Combining Chiropractic and PT
The good news is that our practice offers both chiropractic care and physical therapy so that you can benefit from a comprehensive approach. For instance, after Dr. Jake aligns your spine, Crystal can provide PT exercises that can help strengthen the surrounding muscles to maintain the correction.
Still unsure which treatment to pursue? Schedule a consultation today at Family Chiropractic and Wellness. We’ll assess your condition and recommend a personalized plan to help you recover faster and more effectively.