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How Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care Can Work Together

person running outdoors with knee painWhen pain or stiffness keeps you from doing what you love—from a run along the River Torrens in Payneham to a bushwalk in the Adelaide Hills—you may wonder what kind of care will help most. Should you see a physiotherapist, a chiropractor, or consider both together?

The truth is, you don’t always have to choose. These two approaches, which we offer at Premium Health Therapies, can work hand in hand, combining the benefits of movement rehabilitation and spinal alignment to help address different aspects of your health.

Understanding the Complementary Relationship

Chiropractic care often focuses on spinal and joint alignment to support healthy biomechanics. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, emphasises exercise-based rehabilitation, strength building, and functional movement. When used together, these approaches may offer a more well-rounded way to address the different factors that can contribute to discomfort or limited mobility.

Situations Where Combined Care May Help

Some musculoskeletal issues that may benefit from an integrated approach include:

  • Chronic lower back discomfort: chiropractic adjustments may assist with joint function, while physiotherapy exercises aim to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
  • Neck tension and certain headaches: chiropractic care may help address joint restrictions, while physiotherapy focuses on posture and muscle balance.
  • Sports injuries: chiropractic techniques may support joint mobility, while physiotherapy exercises aim to rebuild strength and retrain movement patterns.

The Care Process

A combined plan usually begins with assessments from both practitioners. A chiropractor may perform spinal or joint adjustments, while a physiotherapist can create an exercise program tailored to individual needs.

As Claire Oxley (Physiotherapist) explains, “When physiotherapy is combined with chiropractic care, we’re able to look at both movement and alignment, which can give people a more complete picture of their health.” Working together allows each discipline to focus on different aspects of recovery and ongoing wellbeing.

What Research Suggests

Some studies suggest that using chiropractic care alongside physiotherapy may support recovery, improve function, and assist with long-term management compared to relying on a single approach. More research is continuing in this area, but many people find that the combination of care offers them broader support.

Integrated Care at Premium Health Therapies

Our team of chiropractors and our physiotherapist collaborate to provide care designed around your unique situation. By combining approaches, we aim to support your mobility, strength, and overall wellbeing.

Curious about whether integrated care may be right for you? We’d be happy to discuss your options. Contact our Payneham practice today to book a consultation and explore how our team can support your health goals.

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