Here at Cranleigh Osteopathic Practice, we are fortunate to offer both osteopathy and physiotherapy, to provide our patients with the best support available. We know it can be confusing when trying to decide on the best practitioner to see for any given issue, so we have brought together some recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
A bit of background:
Osteopathy and Physiotherapy are very similar professions, with slightly different philosophies and techniques. They both focus on restoring movement and function to the body and treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. All our osteopaths and physiotherapists will provide assessment, treatment, and lifestyle advice and recommendations when required.
As the titles are protected, it is illegal to call yourself a physiotherapist or an osteopath unless you have undergone the appropriate training. This training is comprehensive, requiring a university level education and continued professional development to stay up to date with the latest research. Both professions are also regulated and registered with a governing body.
So who should I see?
If you are in a lot of pain and require urgent treatment, we suggest you make a ‘Next Available Practitioner – Initial Consultation and Treatment’ appointment. This will direct you to the first practitioner available, ensuring you can be given help and management advice as soon as possible.
For many concerns, either an osteopath or a physiotherapist at the practice would be able to help you, so it may come down to personal preference. Some of the most common concerns that can be treated by both professions include:
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Arthritic pain
- Joint pain
- Minor sports injuries
However, there are some instances when we would advise one treatment approach over another. These are outlined below:
Osteopathy
- Treatment for children under 10
- TMJ/Jaw Pain
- Digestion and circulatory problems
- Tension and inability to relax
Physiotherapy
- More significant sports injuries, e.g. ACL rehab
- Dizziness/Balance issues including vertigo
- Neurological conditions including Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease
- Pelvic Floor issues
- Pre and post operative rehabilitation
For a more comprehensive list on the complaints that we can help with at the practice, take a look at our ‘What We Treat’ page, or the individual pages for Osteopathy and Physiotherapy. We are always happy to advise on who is best to see, so if you would like further guidance, email us at info@cranleighosteo.co.uk and we will be in touch as soon as possible.