Whats the difference between (classical) osteopathy & (classical) chiropractic?
NB when reading the following points, it is important to realise that there are as many similarities as differences between the two professions. Differences, when they occur, can be found not only between the professions but equally between practitioners of the same profession (e.g. in osteopathy: classical/structural osteopathy versus cranial osteopathy; in chiropractic: classical chiropractic versus McTimoney chiropractic) chiropractors focus mostly on spinal integrity, using x-rays of the spine to form a diagnosis: osteopaths use palpation (touch) of soft tissues (muscles, ligaments and tendons) and spinal positioning in conjunction with overall postural balance to form a diagnosis chiropractors work mainly on the spine; osteopaths work on the spine but also on the whole body, including peripheral joints chiropractors use more manipulative techniques; osteopaths may use manipulation in conjunction with soft tissue and mobilisation (stretching of joints) techniques.
