While physiotherapy and osteopathy both aim to help patients with mobility, both differ significantly in their approaches.
Physiotherapists focus on the repair and rehabilitation of body parts that have been damaged by injury, illness, or disability. Their approaches often involve active techniques, including exercises designed to help strengthen muscle, as well as promote flexibility and range of motion. Physiotherapy may also include the use of modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy to aid recovery and pain management.
On the other hand, TCM practitioners that study osteopathy, also known as osteopaths, base their methods on the principle that the body’s structure and function are interrelated. They use hands-on techniques to manipulate the musculoskeletal system, aiming to realign the body and restore balance. This holistic approach not only addresses specific injuries but also considers the body as a whole, aiming to improve overall health and mitigate future issues. Osteopathic techniques often include gentle manipulation and myofascial release for stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.
While physiotherapy is more exercise-oriented, osteopathy focuses on manual adjustments and overall body alignment, making both therapies complementary in nature but distinct in practice.