Chiropractic Adjustments vs. Physical Therapy for Back Pain: What’s the Difference?
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek help from healthcare providers. If you're dealing with persistent or recurring low back pain, you've likely come across two popular, non-surgical treatment options: chiropractic care and physical therapy. While both approaches aim to relieve pain and restore function, they take different paths to get there. Understanding the differences can help you make a more informed decision about which option is right for you—or whether combining the two may be most effective.
At Vida Chiropractic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating spinal misalignments that can contribute to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Chiropractic adjustments involve carefully targeted spinal manipulations to restore proper alignment, improve nervous system function, and reduce pressure on surrounding muscles and joints. This approach often provides immediate relief and is particularly effective for issues like herniated discs, sciatica, and joint dysfunction.
On the other hand, physical therapy focuses more on rehabilitation through movement. A physical therapist typically designs exercise programs to strengthen weak muscles, improve flexibility, and restore overall mobility. PT can be especially useful after an injury or surgery, or for addressing muscle imbalances and chronic movement patterns that contribute to pain.
The key distinction is in the focus: chiropractic care addresses structural alignment and nerve function, while physical therapy emphasizes muscular strength and movement retraining. For many patients with low back pain, chiropractic care can bring faster symptom relief by addressing the root cause, while physical therapy can support long-term recovery and help prevent re-injury.
In some cases, combining both approaches offers the best of both worlds. At Vida Chiropractic, we often collaborate with other providers to ensure our patients receive comprehensive care that supports both short-term relief and long-term results.
If you’re unsure which path to take for your back pain, we’re here to help. Our team will evaluate your condition, listen to your goals, and recommend a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs.
Ready to get back to living without pain? Contact Vida Chiropractic today to schedule your consultation.
