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What Are the Major Differences Between Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care?


October 16th, 2024

Are you looking for a licensed physiotherapist or chiropractor in the Metro Vancouver area? Legacies Health Centre provides physiotherapy and chiropractic care to patients seeking treatment plans for a wide range of painful conditions. 

To help you make an informed decision on which treatment method is best suited for you, we review the two treatments here and cover some of the similarities and differences.  

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy involves aiding patients in the restoration, maintenance, and enhancement of their physical health and mobility. After an evaluation of the patient’s mobility and flexibility, the physiotherapist will create a wellness plan and provide posture education as needed. The physiotherapist will also use a combination of hands-on treatment, strengthening, and stretching exercises to treat the patient. Additionally, some physiotherapists offer IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation) needling, a technique unique to physiotherapy, as chiropractors are not permitted to perform procedures that penetrate the skin. Other methods, such as TENS, ultrasound, shockwave, and heat and cold therapy, may also be incorporated into the patient’s treatment plan.

Physiotherapists can help treat the following medical issues:

  • Sports injuries
  • Osteoporosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Psoriatic arthritis 
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Mobility issues
  • Chronic pain
  • Fractures, sprains, and strains
  • Post-surgery rehabilitation
  • Pelvic conditions
  • And more

Check out our website to learn more about our physiotherapy services.

What is Chiropractic Care?

The primary focus of chiropractic care is to address problems related to the neuromusculoskeletal system. After conducting a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition, the chiropractor may recommend a series of physical exams and lab tests if necessary. Following this, the chiropractor will use spinal manipulation in conjunction with soft tissue release techniques. To support the patient in their healing journey, the chiropractor will also recommend certain lifestyle adjustments and suggest exercises that can easily be done at home.

Chiropractors can help treat the following medical issues:

  • Physical and sciatica pain
  • Headaches
  • Scoliosis 
  • Orthotic issues
  • Sports and accident-related injuries
  • Nerve pain
  • Mobility issues and stiffness
  • Pregnancy discomfort and pain
  • Arthritis 
  • And more

Check out our website to learn more about our chiropractic services.

Similarities Between Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care 

Both methods involve an analysis of the patient’s health history, the use of non-invasive pain management techniques, and a focus on holistic wellness plans. As such, they can complement each other and can thus be used together in several cases. They also both put emphasis on the use of exercises and hands-on methods to strengthen the body. Additionally, both physiotherapists and chiropractors are recognized as licensed health practitioners.

Differences Between Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care 

While physiotherapy focuses on pain-free movement and body functions, chiropractic care focuses more on spinal and joint mobility. Physiotherapy involves the use of stretches and exercises to improve mobility while chiropractic case focuses on adjustments and manipulation to help the body heal itself. 

Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care at Legacies Health Centre

Here at Legacies Health Centre, we provide both physiotherapy and chiropractic care. Our services are suitable for the treatment of ICBC patients, and people who suffer from a wide range of pain-inducing conditions.

You can contact us or visit us at one of our four locations in the Metro Vancouver area, including Surrey Southpoint, Surrey Nordel, Burnaby and North Vancouver to book a session with one of our licensed chiropractors and physiotherapists.

Dr. Dana Bloomquist


Dr. Dana Bloomquist has always been passionate about leading an active lifestyle. After suffering horseback riding injuries in her teens, she sought chiropractic care, which inspired her to pursue a career in the field. She graduated with honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic West in San Jose, California, following a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford, BC. As a Diversified chiropractor, Dr. Bloomquist tailors her approach to each patient’s needs, utilizing techniques such as manual adjustments, myofascial release, Activator, drop table, IASTM, Rocktape, FAKTR, cold laser therapy, shockwave therapy, and providing education on healthy living and rehab exercises/stretches.

Book online with Dr. Dana Bloomquist in South Surrey!