What is the difference between a chiropractor and a physiotherapist?

[wigsrcool]

No i know there are loads of benefits to having chiropractors, physiotherapists etc out to your horses, but what im wondering is what is the difference in how it can treat the horse?

i.e. im aware that a chiropractor is more centred around the spine and a physio is just general working of the muscles etc but how would the way they treat an injury/complaint differ? and how would you know which of them to call out?

also same questions applies to stuff like equine sports massage, osteopath etc.

 

[Fanshawe]

I'm not sure what the official line would be but I see Osteopaths/Chiropracters as dealing with more structural issues-twisted pelvis, poll being out, spinal issues and joint problems. I'd then think of physios and massage as dealing with muscular problems such as strains and sprains and general stiffness. Personally I always prefer to call an osteopath out first to make sure there's nothing structural, but then I do Reiki with them to help with muscles/sprains and strains and to speed up the recovery. Nothing against the others at all just what I prefer. Oh and then Bowen as a top up/alternative to Osteo-they deal with structural and muscular.

 

[suztara]

To decide which therapy to use for your horse - it is usually best to speak with your vet first - especially if your horse has an injury/ailment. The majority of therapists will want a veterinary referral anyhow.

Some info on different therapies can be found at this website: www.taranet.co.uk/directory.htm