Total Health Systems
Chiropractic CarevsPhysical Therapy

Chiropractic Care vs Physical Therapy

Both chiropractic care and physical therapy are effective treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, but they approach healing differently. Chiropractors focus on spinal alignment and nervous system function through adjustments, while physical therapists emphasize movement, strength, and functional rehabilitation through exercise programs. At Total Health Systems, we offer both services and often recommend combining them for comprehensive care.

Quick Comparison

Chiropractic Care

Focus: Spinal alignment, nervous system function, and joint manipulation

Best For:

  • Back and neck pain
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Joint misalignment
  • Sciatica
  • Posture correction
  • Whiplash injuries

Common Techniques:

Spinal adjustmentsManual manipulationMobilization techniquesSoft tissue therapyInstrument-assisted adjustments

Session Length

15-30 minutes

Typical Frequency

1-3 times per week initially

Learn More About Chiropractic Care →

Physical Therapy

Focus: Movement restoration, strength building, and functional rehabilitation

Best For:

  • Post-surgery rehabilitation
  • Sports injuries
  • Muscle weakness
  • Balance problems
  • Chronic pain management
  • Mobility limitations

Common Techniques:

Therapeutic exercisesManual therapyStretching programsStrength trainingModalities (heat, ice, electrical stimulation)Gait training

Session Length

45-60 minutes

Typical Frequency

2-3 times per week

Learn More About Physical Therapy →

When to Choose Each Treatment

Choose Chiropractic Care When...

  • You have sudden back or neck pain from a specific incident
  • You experience frequent headaches or migraines
  • You feel like your spine is "out of alignment"
  • You want quick relief from joint stiffness
  • You prefer hands-on manual treatment

Choose Physical Therapy When...

  • You're recovering from surgery
  • You need to rebuild strength after an injury
  • You have chronic pain requiring long-term management
  • You need to improve balance or mobility
  • You want to learn exercises to prevent future injuries

Combine Both When...

  • Complex spinal conditions requiring both alignment and strengthening
  • Sports injuries needing immediate pain relief plus rehabilitation
  • Chronic conditions benefiting from multiple treatment approaches
  • Auto accident injuries with both acute and recovery phases
  • Optimal wellness and injury prevention programs

Common Questions: Chiropractic Care vs Physical Therapy

Both are effective for back pain. Chiropractic care often provides faster relief for acute pain through spinal adjustments, while physical therapy builds long-term strength and prevents recurrence through exercise.

Many patients benefit from combining both approaches.
Yes! At Total Health Systems, we frequently coordinate care between our chiropractors and physical therapists. This combined approach addresses both alignment issues and muscle function for comprehensive treatment.
Both services are valuable after auto accidents. Chiropractic care addresses spinal misalignment and whiplash, while physical therapy helps restore strength and mobility.

We typically recommend a combination for optimal recovery.
In Michigan, you don't need a referral for chiropractic care. For physical therapy, most insurance plans allow direct access, though some may require a physician referral.

Our team can help verify your coverage.

Ready to Start Your Chiropractic Care or Physical Therapy Treatment?

Don't let pain hold you back. Our expert chiropractic care or physical therapy team is ready to help you feel better today.

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