Total Health Systems
Chiropractic Care+Physical Therapy

Better Together

Chiropractic + Physical Therapy: Better Together

Wondering whether to see a chiropractor or physical therapist for your pain? You're asking the right question—but at Total Health Systems, we've found the real answer isn't "either/or." Our integrated approach combines spinal alignment with functional rehabilitation, and patients consistently tell us this combination delivers results they couldn't achieve with just one treatment.

Optimal Approach

Why Combining These Treatments Works

Chiropractic Care+Physical Therapy

Chiropractic care and physical therapy are natural partners in healing. While chiropractic adjustments restore proper joint alignment and optimize nervous system function, physical therapy builds the muscular strength and stability needed to maintain those corrections. Together, they address both the structural and functional aspects of musculoskeletal health—giving you faster relief AND longer-lasting results.

Faster pain relief: Adjustments provide immediate relief while exercises prevent recurrence

Better long-term outcomes: Strong muscles help maintain proper alignment

Comprehensive healing: Addresses both structural misalignment AND muscle weakness

Reduced treatment time: Coordinated care often resolves issues faster than either alone

Lower risk of re-injury: Strengthened muscles protect properly aligned joints

Conditions That Respond Best to Combined Treatment

Chronic back pain with recurring episodesSports injuries requiring both acute care and rehabilitationAuto accident injuries with whiplash and soft tissue damagePost-surgical recovery needing alignment and strengtheningDegenerative conditions like arthritis affecting spine and muscles
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Understanding Each Treatment

While we recommend combining these treatments for optimal results, here's what each brings to your treatment plan:

Chiropractic Care

Role in combined treatment: Restores proper joint alignment and optimizes nervous system function

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

Best For:

Back and neck painHeadaches and migrainesJoint misalignmentSciatica

Session Length

10 minutes (adjustments), longer for evaluations*

Typical Frequency

1-3 times per week initially*

Learn more about Chiropractic Care →

Physical Therapy

Role in combined treatment: Builds strength and stability to maintain chiropractic corrections

Focus: Movement restoration, strength building, and functional rehabilitation

Best For:

Post-surgery rehabilitationSports injuriesMuscle weaknessBalance problems

Session Length

40-45 minutes*

Typical Frequency

2-3 times per week*

Learn more about Physical Therapy →

*Please note: Session lengths, frequency, and treatment plans vary based on each individual's unique needs and condition. At Total Health Systems, we believe in a holistic, personalized approach—your care plan may require more or less treatment depending on your specific situation. During your consultation, our team will create a customized plan tailored just for you.

When Each Treatment May Be Particularly Helpful

These are situations where one treatment might take the lead—but remember, combining both often delivers the best results.

Chiropractic Care may take the lead 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

Physical Therapy may take the lead 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

Not sure which applies to you? Our team can evaluate your situation and recommend the right combination.

Explore Related Treatment Combinations

Massage Therapy + Chiropractic CarePhysical Therapy + Massage Therapy

Common Questions: Chiropractic Care + Physical Therapy

Both are effective for back pain, but combining them often delivers the best results. Chiropractic care provides faster relief through spinal adjustments, while physical therapy builds long-term strength and prevents recurrence.

At Total Health Systems, our chiropractors and physical therapists work together to create personalized treatment plans that leverage both approaches.
Absolutely! At Total Health Systems, we frequently coordinate care between our chiropractors and physical therapists—it's one of our greatest strengths. This combined approach addresses both alignment issues and muscle function for comprehensive treatment and faster recovery.
Both services are valuable after auto accidents, and we typically recommend combining them for optimal recovery. Chiropractic care addresses spinal misalignment and whiplash immediately, while physical therapy rebuilds strength and mobility over time.

Our team coordinates your care so both treatments work together.
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 and coordinate any necessary referrals.

Ready to Start Your Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy Treatment?

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

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