Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic: What’s the Difference?

Discover which therapy suits your needs, all from the comfort of your home.

At Abbey Mobile Physio, we believe that choosing high-quality treatment shouldn't feel like a hurdle. For many of us, finding the right treatment can be the first step towards improved health, but knowing where to start can be tricky. Let’s break down the differences between physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic care, so you can make an informed choice for your health.

1. Physiotherapy – Movement Made Easy (and Convenient)

What it is: Physiotherapy is rooted in medical science and focuses on restoring function, reducing pain, and enhancing mobility through evidence-based treatments.

How we deliver it:

• Delivered at home, ensuring comfort and accessibility.

• Combines hands-on therapy with tailored exercise programmes, built for recovery and long-term wellness.

• Ideal for common issues like back pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, sciatica, and general musculoskeletal conditions.

• Perfect for recovery from stroke, Parkinson’s disease, MS, or post-op rehabilitation.

2. Osteopathy – Holistic Hands-On Healing

What it is: Osteopathy emphasises gentle, holistic bodywork, looking at how your entire body moves and functions.

Typical approach: Focuses on soft tissue massage, gentle joint mobilisation, and stretching to enhance overall balance and support the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

Best for:

• Pain relief from muscle tension, joint stiffness, or postural issues.

• Gentle, hands-on support when you’re seeking a more holistic alternative.

3. Chiropractic – Spinal Alignment Focus

What it is: Chiropractic care centres around the spine and nervous system, operating on the belief that spinal alignment affects overall health.

Techniques used: Typically involves spinal adjustments or manipulations—quick, targeted movements to correct alignment.

Best for:

• Acute back pain, neck pain, and certain types of headaches.

• Individuals prioritising spinal alignment and nervous system balance.

Which is Best for You?

• Choose physiotherapy if you're looking for recovery from injury, chronic pain, or functional decline—especially when you’d prefer treatment at home, tailored exercise support, and evidence-based care.

• Choose osteopathy if you're after a gentler, body-wide approach to relieve stiffness or tension.

• Choose chiropractic if your main concern is spinal discomfort or alignment-related issues.

Why Abbey Mobile Physio Wins for Home-Based Care

Our key aim at Abbey Mobile Physio is to offer professional, patient-centred care in the comfort of your own home. With tailored exercise rehabilitation, flexible and accessible appointments and friendly staff, we believe we’re the best choice for convenient and high-quality physiotherapy.

So, if you’re recovering from injury, managing a long-term condition, or simply looking to move better, our physiotherapy home visits can provide the efficient, compassionate care you need—without ever leaving your house. Book in a 45-minute initial assessment with Ben or arrange sessions with a rehabilitation trainer at times that suit you best.