What is the Difference Between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?

Osteopaths and chiropractors are medical professionals that treat patients who have health issues with their musculoskeletal systems. Though their patients may have similar ailments, the treatment that is given by these professionals can be very different. To understand those differences, it is important to know exactly what type of work is done in each individual field.

Chiropractors

Chiropractors are trained in a three to four year program about chiropractic medicine. Studies include anatomy, biology and physiology that focus on the skeletal system. These doctors practice under the belief that a variety of different health problems may be caused by an imbalance of the muscoskeletal system. During their training, they are taught how to make adjustments to this system in order to relieve pain or other symptoms of illness. Adjustments may be made to the back, neck, hips and limbs.

Osteopaths

Osteopaths are actually more highly trained than chiropractors. This profession is more like that of a physician in the way that they are licensed to treat patients. They do focus on the muscoskeletal system to some extent, but do not believe that adjustments can alleviate other illnesses. While the muscoskeletal system is cared for, other areas of the body will be treated as well. Osteopaths have the right to prescribe medications, perform surgeries and other medical services that they may specialize in.

Similarities

Though chiropractors and osteopaths differ in their ability to treat patients, there are similar guidelines they must follow to keep their practice active. Both professions must take qualification exams in order to treat patients and they both also must take part in continuing education in order to continue practicing. Although chiropractors cannot prescribe medications, they do have the ability to refer patients to other medical specialists just as osteopaths do.