Chiropractor vs Physical Therapist: Which One Should You Visit First?

When you’re dealing with lingering back pain, neck aches, or mobility issues, it’s not always clear who to turn to: a chiropractor or a physical therapist. Both professionals help patients recover from injury, manage chronic pain, and improve mobility, but they approach treatment in different ways.

If you’re unsure whether to see a chiropractor or physical therapist first, this guide breaks down the key differences, treatment goals, and modalities to help you make a confident, informed decision.

Chiropractor vs Physical Therapist: What’s the Main Difference?

Understanding the chiropractor vs physical therapist question starts with this: both are licensed healthcare professionals who focus on the musculoskeletal system—your bones, joints, muscles, and nerves. But their training, techniques, and treatment goals vary.

Chiropractors Focus on Spinal Health

A chiropractor is trained to diagnose and treat disorders of the spinal column, often using spinal manipulation and manual therapy to restore alignment and reduce pressure on the nervous system.

• They hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree.
• Focus areas include neck pain, back pain, low back pain, and sciatica.
• Chiropractors take a whole-body approach and may offer massage, heat therapy, or laser therapy as part of care.
• Their goal is to reduce pain, increase range of motion, and support the body’s natural healing process.

Physical Therapists Specialize in Movement and Rehab

A physical therapist (PT) is a healthcare professional trained to help patients regain strength and improve mobility following an injury or surgery.

• Holds a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
• Physical therapists specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries through exercise, manual techniques, and patient education.
• They emphasize functional recovery—helping you move better and prevent future injuries.
• PTs may include gait training, functional training, and occupational therapy in your treatment plan.

Chiropractors and Physical Therapists: Training and Philosophy

Both professions require extensive undergraduate education, clinical internships, and licensure exams. But their core educational paths differ in focus.

Chiropractor Education

• Degree: Doctor of Chiropractic
• Emphasis: Chiropractic education, anatomy, diagnostic imaging, and manual therapy
• Common modalities include:

• • Spinal adjustment
  • Joint manipulation
  • Cryotherapy
  • Massage
  • Kinesiology

Physical Therapist Education

• Degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Emphasis: Biomechanics, tissue (biology), physiology, and rehabilitation
• Includes training in:

• • Functional electrical stimulation

• • Heat and cold therapy

• • Manual therapy exercises

• • Traction (orthopedics)

• • Patient education

Chiropractic Care vs Physical Therapy: Key Differences

Let’s break down how these two fields differ in practice. While both aim to alleviate pain and restore function, they use different avenues to get there.

Which Expert Is Better for You?

The answer to the chiropractor vs physical therapist question often comes down to your symptoms and goals.

Consider Seeing a Chiropractor If:

• You’re experiencing spinal misalignments or concentrated back pain
• You want non-invasive treatment like manual adjustments or spinal manipulation
• You’re looking for whole-body chiropractic care that includes massage, laser therapy, and spinal adjustment
• You’re dealing with recurring pain and want lasting structural changes
• You’re curious about chiropractic services in Colorado (Note: For readers outside this region, check with your local clinic)

Consider Seeing a Physical Therapist If:

• You’re recovering from a recent injury or surgery
• Your physician has prescribed rehab
• You need help regaining strength, range, and daily function
• You have ataxia, stroke, joint replacements, or related mobility issues
• You’re seeking a structured path to rehabilitation with a measurable outcome

Chiropractic vs Physical Therapy: Can You Do Both?

Yes! You don’t always have to choose between chiropractic care and physical therapy. In fact, chiropractic and physical therapy can be highly complementary when coordinated by experienced professionals.

Many patients benefit from an integrated model of care:

• Chiropractic care primarily focuses on spinal health and alignment.
• Physical therapy often supports strength, endurance, and flexibility improvements.
• Both are non-invasive methods that aim to alleviate pain and improve overall health.
  

Chiropractors often work closely with PTs. In some cases, clinics offer both services under one roof. This interdisciplinary approach allows for a tailored treatment plan that incorporates adjustments, strengthening, massage, and patient education.

Choosing Between Chiropractors and Physical Therapists

If you’re stuck deciding between a chiropractor or a physical therapist, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, here are a few guiding questions:

• Are you dealing with sudden back pain, neck pain, or nerve pressure? A chiropractor may be a better fit.
• Recovering from surgery, sports injury, or extended immobility? A physical therapist is essential.
• Want to combine both approaches? Look for a clinic that offers chiropractic care and physical therapy under one roof.
  

For many patients, the choice depends on their current condition, goals, and insurance plan.

Both professions are well-trained to diagnose and treat issues safely and effectively.

Final Thoughts: Chiropractor vs Physical Therapist

The differences between the two largely come down to methodology and focus. 

• Chiropractors focus on spinal health and use alignment to ease the nervous system. 
• Physical therapists focus on restoring function and mobility after injury.

Whether your goal is to treat pain, decrease pain, or rebuild strength, the right provider will help you improve quality of life and prevent future issues.

If you’re still feeling unsure about who to see first, talk to your primary physician or reach out to a local clinic. The team at Elite Chiropractic Rehab & Wellness is happy to explain how our chiropractic services in Colorado may fit your needs, or refer you to a physical therapist if that’s a better fit.

Either way, starting the conversation is the first step toward pain relief and better movement. Don’t wait—take action to feel like yourself again.