Chiropractic Care Vs. Physical Therapy: Making the Best Choice
If you suffer from back and neck pain caused by trauma, such as a car wreck, you may not be sure where to turn when it comes to alleviating your discomfort. Chiropractic care may be effective in treating your symptoms, as could physical therapy. Understanding the differences between these two types of care may help you make the most informed choice possible for the future of your overall well-being.
Chiropractic Care
After the accident, your general practitioner may recommend that you see a chiropractor to help you feel less discomfort, especially if you have developed a spinal issue. Some chiropractic offices cooperate with the doctors who refer them, as some insurance companies require prior authorization before they pay out for chiropractic care. You might be referred for a variety of issues, including:
- Neck stiffness
- Increasing spinal pain
- A limited range of motion
You might consider sharing your chiropractor’s findings with your doctor to ensure you continue to receive the proper treatment.
Physical Therapy
After an accident, you may require physical therapy to gain back strength in parts of the body that were injured. This differs from chiropractic care in several ways, but the major difference is a focus on rehabilitation as well as pain relief. Physical therapists might also teach you exercises you can perform on your own to strengthen your body after an accident and also work with you to ensure you recover at your own pace, depending on the severity of your injuries. Your doctor may arrange physical therapy on your behalf while you are in the hospital, and you will likely work with a therapist on an outpatient basis.
Doctor Involvement
Doctors, chiropractors and physical therapists often work together to ensure you have the best possible chance for recovery after an accident. For example, a doctor might refer you to a physical therapist if you have any kind of muscle atrophy or if you need to build strength in your legs after being unable to walk for several months. A physical therapist may recommend that you see a chiropractor once you regain your strength and balance, especially if you begin to experience chronic back pain. You may work with all three branches of medicine during your recovery, which could offer you the best possible chance of recovery.
Being involved in a serious accident can change your life and impact your health, but you do not have to face the future alone. Speak to a chiropractor about physical therapy in Baltimore, MD today for more information or to schedule an initial consultation.
Thanks to Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab and Chiropractic for their insight into chiropractic care and physical therapy.