Many questions come up when you are looking for a doctor, but the most common one is, “How do I know If I need to see a chiropractor or an osteopath?” Let’s take a look at these questions and the different types of treatments that your doctor may recommend.
First off, both doctors can treat your symptoms with the same type of treatment. The only difference is that chiropractors use their hands to move your joints, while an osteopath uses instruments to do the same thing. The main difference between chiropractors and osteopaths is that a chiropractor will usually refer you to an actual medical professional. If your pain is severe and makes it difficult to get around, you should contact your primary care physician for a referral.
Your doctor usually prescribes pain relievers, and sometimes this will include pain killers. However, if you have serious problems such as a herniated disc or a hernia, your doctor may suggest an MRI or x-ray confirm that another problem does not cause the pain.
Chiropractic spinal adjustments are the second most commonly recommended treatment. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat low back pain but are often best at providing relief from pain and stiffness. Your doctor will likely prescribe a chiropractic adjustment or two to help relieve the problem, and it will typically last anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours.
While most chiropractic spinal adjustments do not require any special equipment, some types of treatments, such as spinal decompression, are done with special tools. Osteopaths, on the other hand, typically perform procedures that require the use of a machine. These types of services are generally more expensive, and they generally are covered by insurance.
There is no way to determine the appropriate treatment for you based solely on your present symptoms. You should seek out a specialist’s advice in your particular condition to determine the best course of action. The sooner you seek treatment, the better. Although back pain is a common complaint, back pain can also lead to issues such as arthritis, which can affect more than just your back, so it’s essential to seek treatment if you’re experiencing pain and stiffness.
Before you decide on treatment, you should first determine what kind of pain relief you need and determine what types of treatments your doctor has recommended. Be sure to take a tour of your doctor’s office to see if anything specific you need to relieve your pain. For example, you might need special orthopedic pillows, specialized heating pads, or even a brace or support belt.
Once you know your specific type of pain, it is time to find a good doctor who is qualified to provide that treatment. When searching for a new doctor, ask about your new practitioner’s experience, and be sure to see if he or she has any references. You want a practitioner that will be able to provide the type of care you need, and that will work with you to make sure you get the results you are looking for.
Chiropractors and osteopaths are generally the same breeds, so if your pain seems similar to the kinds of issues that chiropractors deal with, then your chances of finding a good practitioner are good. However, keep in mind that your doctor might not have a lot of experience dealing with your particular condition. Make sure to ask a lot of questions, including how long your treatment will take and your treatment outcome.
The amount of time it takes to treat different back pain types can vary greatly, depending on the problem’s severity. Be sure to discuss your doctor’s options and determine what kind of treatment is most suitable for your specific condition.
