Osteopath and physiotherapist: it’s often hard to tell the difference between these two specialists. They both use manual techniques to treat ailments; that much is clear. But it’s often difficult to know which therapist to choose when the time comes. These two professions share many similarities. But ultimately, they are just that—similarities. Real differences exist between them, which you can discover here. A brief journey into the heart of physiotherapy and osteopathy.
Everyone has their own path to becoming a physiotherapist or osteopath.
Each profession requires very specific training. Thus, every physiotherapy student must complete three years of training before being able to practice (in France, this training period was extended to four years following a reform by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Higher Education). Osteopathy students, on the other hand, have a slightly longer training period: five years, which is equivalent to obtaining a master’s degree. Therefore, osteopaths and physiotherapists cannot interchange their roles. However, decrees in effect since 2014 authorize physiotherapists to practice osteopathy after 1892 hours of training. That said, a physiotherapist cannot practice as an osteopath within their physiotherapy practice. Therefore, a physiotherapist specializing in osteopathy must specify, before any consultation, whether they practice as an osteopath or as a physiotherapist.
Osteopath and physiotherapist: specific areas of intervention
The physiotherapist’s work focuses primarily on the musculoskeletal system. Their mission is to treat the painful area to reintegrate it into the body’s overall function. To achieve this, they initially use passive treatment with either manual techniques or assistive devices. Subsequently, they guide the patient through exercises designed to improve proprioception and the precision of their movements. They also provide rehabilitation and lifestyle advice. This advice is beneficial to the patient and can also be invaluable to anyone seeking better health.
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The osteopath, on the other hand, has a holistic view of the body. Their work consists of identifying and treating restrictions in mobility that may affect the human body. Their goal is to harmonize the body as a whole. To achieve this, they use only manual techniques.
For what reasons might one consult one or the other?
Since physiotherapists primarily focus on the musculoskeletal system, they can be consulted for post-traumatic rehabilitation, post-surgical rehabilitation, skin rehabilitation, spinal rehabilitation, and even respiratory conditions. Osteopaths, on the other hand, are the professionals to consult for any problem affecting the orthopedic and musculoskeletal systems, as well as any condition affecting the neurological, digestive, cardiovascular, and autonomic nervous systems. Their scope of practice also extends to the ENT and pulmonary systems, the after-effects of trauma, and even preparing pregnant women for childbirth. It’s important to note that osteopaths are primary care practitioners. A referral from a healthcare professional is not required to consult them. This is not the case for physiotherapists, for whom a doctor’s prescription is mandatory.
