October is both chiropractic and physical therapy appreciation month, which is actually quite fitting as their care goes hand and hand in order to create the best possible outcomes for patients in regard to movement, pain, and function.
One of the unique aspects of Williams Integracare is our integrated and cohesive approach to care, which features family practice, chiropractic, and physical therapy departments all under one roof. Though their roles are somewhat different, our chiropractors and physical therapists work together to achieve the long-term goals of our patients.
What’s the difference between chiropractic and physical therapy care?
While both physical therapists and chiropractors provide musculoskeletal care, there are some key differences that make each specialty unique.
Chiropractors use a unique system of integrative medicine based on the diagnosis and manipulative treatment of misalignments of joints, especially those of the spinal column, which can cause other disorders by affecting nerves, muscles, and organs.
Physical therapy addresses the dysfunction or injuries that limit a person’s abilities to move, perform functional activities, and addresses the best efficiency and body mechanics optimal for daily function.
Our chiropractors focus a bit more on spinal mobilization and alignment, while our physical therapists assist in that progression of healing with functional exercises that will help achieve and maintain the best long-term outcome in regard to injury and pain. Both take a very functional approach – assessing and addressing full body systems and movement patterns.
At Williams Integracare our chiropractors and physical therapists work together on a daily basis, with the same goals: to get our patients pain-free, moving well, and able to function in their daily lives to the best of our abilities.
Many of our patients enjoy the benefits of utilizing chiropractic and physical therapy care at the same time. This is often the fastest and most optimal route to recovery. Our chiropractors may have unique skills and toolsets that complement the care plans in PT and vice versa. Often times combined care leads to a faster recovery.
Playing a Crucial Role in Auto Accident Recovery
Due to the complex nature of auto related injuries, many patients visit our clinic to be evaluated by a chiropractor after a crash. A chiropractor can work to start mobilizing your spine/associated joints and start the overall healing process. A physical therapist plays a crucial role in helping improve your joint, trunk, and core stabilization through strengthening to facilitate further healing.
Both providers will try to promote calming the nervous system, which will generally help with pain reduction, and then promote more efficient movement patterns and body mechanics which the patient will be educated in and practice in the clinic.
Thank a Chiropractor or Physical Therapist in October
Williams Integracare is fortunate to have three chiropractors, three physical therapists, and multiple physical therapy assistants on our Sartell staff.
Our team plays an important role in the recovery process for so many Minnesotans who are treated for injuries, movement dysfunction, acute pain, or chronic pain. Movement is the foundation of our lives and why the work of our team is so important to helping you live your best life.