Whats the difference between a chiropractor and a physical therapist?

If you're dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or just trying to improve your mobility, you may be wondering: Should I see a chiropractor or a physical therapist? Both professionals help people move better and feel better, but they use different approaches and philosophies to get there.

At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we often meet patients who are unsure which provider is right for them—or whether they can benefit from both. In this blog post, we’ll break down the key similarities and differences between chiropractors and physical therapists, so you can make informed decisions about your care.

At their core, both chiropractors and physical therapists aim to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. However, their methods, training, and focus areas differ.

Let’s take a closer look at each profession:

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors believe that when the spine is properly aligned, the body can function and heal more effectively.

Common techniques used by chiropractors include:

• Spinal adjustments and joint manipulation
• Soft tissue therapy
• Postural and lifestyle recommendations
• Exercises to improve spinal stability and flexibility

At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we use a hands-on, personalized approach to restore alignment, relieve pressure on nerves, and help your body heal itself naturally. We also offer animal chiropractic care, helping horses and dogs move and feel their best.

Physical therapists (PTs) are movement specialists who help patients improve strength, flexibility, and functional mobility, especially after surgery, injury, or illness. PTs often work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or private practices.

• Targeted exercises to restore strength and motion
• Stretching and mobility work
• Balance and gait training
• Manual therapy techniques (e.g., soft tissue mobilization)
• Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or heat/cold therapy

Physical therapists often develop long-term rehab plans to help patients return to daily activities, sports, or work duties.

Both chiropractors and physical therapists complete extensive education and clinical training, but the paths vary:

Chiropractors

• Typically earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree
• Attend chiropractic college after undergraduate studies
• Complete coursework in anatomy, physiology, neurology, biomechanics, radiology, and chiropractic techniques
• Must pass national board exams and obtain state licensure

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose conditions and may take X-rays in-office to aid in diagnosis.

Physical Therapists

• Earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree
• Typically complete a 3-year graduate program after undergraduate work
• Focus heavily on movement science, pathology, rehabilitation techniques, and evidence-based practices
• Must pass a national exam and be licensed in their state

PTs do not perform spinal adjustments but may use hands-on techniques to mobilize joints or soft tissues.

See a Chiropractor If You:

• Have back or neck pain from poor posture, injury, or spinal misalignment
• Are experiencing nerve pain, sciatica, or radiating symptoms
• Want a natural, hands-on approach to healing without medication
• Are looking for a quick relief option that restores joint mobility
• Are seeking preventive care or maintenance adjustments
• Need help with spinal imbalances, joint pain, or tension headaches

See a Physical Therapist If You:

• Are recovering from surgery or a major injury
• Need help regaining strength and balance after an illness
• Have a condition like stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis
• Are experiencing muscle weakness or coordination issues
• Need a long-term rehab plan for returning to work or sports
• Are under a surgeon’s or physician’s rehab protocol

Absolutely. In fact, many people benefit from integrating both chiropractic care and physical therapy into their recovery plan. The two disciplines can complement each other nicely.

A chiropractor may restore spinal alignment and reduce nerve interference, allowing your body to move more freely.

A physical therapist may then build on that progress by strengthening muscles, improving mobility, and helping you re-learn movement patterns.

If you’re not sure where to start, our team at Kishbaugh Chiropractic is happy to evaluate your needs and refer you to a PT if we think you’ll benefit from additional rehab. Our goal is always to do what’s best for your long-term health and mobility.

Why Chiropractic Might Be Right for You

If your symptoms are related to spinal misalignment, nerve irritation, or joint dysfunction, chiropractic care is often a faster and more direct solution than physical therapy. Many of our patients come in with back pain, headaches, or postural problems and experience noticeable relief after just a few sessions.

At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we treat each patient as a whole person—not just a set of symptoms. Our goal is to correct the root cause of discomfort, not just mask it with medication or temporary solutions.

We also offer flexible appointment scheduling, personalized care plans, and the rare ability to treat animals, including dogs and horses, with chiropractic adjustments.

Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?

The choice between a chiropractor and a physical therapist depends on your condition, goals, and preferences. In many cases, both can be valuable parts of your wellness or recovery journey.

If you’re looking for natural, effective relief from pain and want to improve how your body functions—from your spine to your stride—chiropractic care may be the perfect place to start.

Schedule Your Consultation at Kishbaugh Chiropractic Today

Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply want to feel and move better, our team at Kishbaugh Chiropractic in Tucson is here to help.

📍 Visit our clinic in central Tucson

📞 Call us to schedule your first appointment

🐶 Ask us about chiropractic care for dogs and horses

Kishbaugh Chiropractic – Whole-Body Healing for You and Your Animals

Back pain? Joint stiffness? Let’s get you moving again—naturally.