When your body isn’t moving or functioning the way it should, whether because of pain, injury, or something you can’t quite put your finger on, knowing where to turn can be overwhelming. Two of the most effective forms of conservative musculoskeletal care are chiropractic and physiotherapy, but they’re often misunderstood or seen as interchangeable.
At Hälsa, we offer both therapies across our six UK clinics. While some clients benefit most from one approach, many find that combining elements of both offers the best results. The key is knowing which approach fits your situation, and what each therapy is really designed to do.
Understanding the Differences
Although both chiropractic and physiotherapy aim to restore pain-free movement, their methods, and even their underlying philosophies, are distinct.
Chiropractic care focuses primarily on joint mechanics, especially those in the spine, and how they affect nervous system function. A chiropractor may use precise manual adjustments to restore mobility, reduce nerve irritation and improve postural alignment.
Physiotherapy, by contrast, is often more functional in scope. It blends manual therapy with structured rehabilitation to address strength, flexibility and coordination, often after injury, surgery, or periods of inactivity.
In short:
- Chiropractic tends to focus on restoring joint movement and alignment
- Physiotherapy aims to build long-term functional capacity through movement and exercise
One isn’t better than the other, they’re simply different tools for different jobs.
"I had been told I would need a new knee by specialists. But being 53 at the time was told I was too young. I went to see Hälsa about a back pain. I mentioned my knee and was told they had a lady who may help. Shyni took a look and said she thought I also had a tight tendon above my knee. After 5 sessions of acupuncture and manipulation I am now pain free and running again. I know this won’t work for everybody but that was over 2 years ago and still pain free. Thankyou."
- Steven, Hälsa Godalming Clinic
When Is Chiropractic Treatment Most Helpful?
Chiropractic treatment is particularly effective when symptoms are linked to joint restrictions, spinal misalignment, or nervous system dysfunction. Common signs include:
- Neck or back stiffness, especially first thing in the morning
- Postural fatigue, discomfort after sitting or standing for long periods
- “Locking” joints or restricted mobility
- Headaches or migraines linked to neck tension
- Radiating pain, pins and needles, or numbness in the arms or legs
In these cases, chiropractic adjustments can provide immediate relief, while also addressing the root cause of the dysfunction, rather than just the symptoms.
When Is Physiotherapy Treatment the Better Fit?
Physiotherapy is particularly beneficial for patients recovering from injury or surgery, or dealing with chronic musculoskeletal conditions like osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, or repetitive strain injuries.
Common scenarios include:
- Rehabilitation after orthopaedic surgery (e.g. knee replacements, rotator cuff repairs)
- Recovery from sports injuries, like ankle sprains or hamstring tears
- Long-standing conditions causing weakness or movement avoidance
- Improving gait, balance, or coordination, particularly with ageing
Physiotherapy takes a more structured, goal-oriented approach, using manual therapy, progressive exercise programmes and education on body mechanics to restore strength and prevent re-injury.
“I highly recommend this physiotherapy service. My physiotherapist, Nithin, is exceptionally professional and knowledgeable in treating my muscle pain. I was particularly impressed with the effectiveness of his treatment plan, which was tailored to my specific needs. Thanks to Nithin's expertise, my muscles recovered quickly and I experienced significant relief. I wouldn't hesitate to seek his services again.”
- Vico, HälsaBracknell Clinic
Sports Physiotherapy: Supporting Performance and Recovery
Whether you're a professional athlete or someone who enjoys recreational sport, injuries can sideline you both physically and mentally. Sports physiotherapy is a specialised branch of rehab focused on preventing, managing and recovering from injuries related to athletic activity.
At Hälsa, our physiotherapists understand the physical demands placed on the body through training, competition, or general activity. From overuse injuries to sudden strains and tears, we take a performance-led approach to help you return to sport safely and stronger than before.
We commonly work with:
- Ankle sprains and knee ligament injuries
- Hamstring and groin strains
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tendinopathies (e.g. Achilles or patellar tendons)
- Recurrent injuries due to movement pattern imbalances
- Post-concussion rehab (in collaboration with specialists)
A key focus is not just symptom resolution, but movement re-education, strength optimisation and injury prevention tailored to your sport.
Whether you're returning from injury or looking to improve performance and resilience, sports physiotherapy can bridge the gap between rehab and high-level function.
Can You Combine Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Treatments?
Yes, a combined approach can offer the most comprehensive results.
At Hälsa, it's not unusual to begin with a short course of chiropractic care to resolve joint stiffness or restore alignment. From there, physiotherapy helps reinforce these improvements with targeted strength work, mobility training and movement pattern correction.
This integrated strategy helps prevent relapse, addresses underlying muscular imbalances and supports long-term stability.
What the Evidence Says
Numerous clinical trials and reviews have validated the effectiveness of both chiropractic and physiotherapy in managing musculoskeletal conditions. A UK-based study comparing spinal manipulation, physiotherapy and usual GP care for lowerback pain found all three were effective, but that early intervention led to significantly better outcomes.
Similarly, a growing body of research supports combining manual therapy with exercise-based rehabilitation for optimal recovery, whether you’re dealing with acute injury or chronic pain.
When to Seek Help
It’s easy to blame discomfort on stress, age, or inactivity, but persistent pain is never “just part of life.” If you’re noticing any of the following, it’s time to consider professional support:
- Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
- Difficulty turning your head or twisting your spine
- Pain that radiates down the arms or legs
- Recurrent injuries in the same area
- A sense of imbalance or physical compensation
These maybe early signs of joint dysfunction or muscular imbalance that, if left untreated, could lead to more serious complications.
A thorough assessment with a chiropractor or physiotherapist at Hälsa can identify the cause and provide a roadmap to recovery.
“I’ve been coming to Hälsa Burnham for over 3 months. My posture has improved rapidly; I no longer get migraines which was the main reason I booked with Dr Connor. I suffered with severe headaches/migraines for years. He’s literally the best. The practice is warm and welcoming with lovely staff (Tia). This is one practice I have recommended to all friends and family. The amount of stuff I can actually do now is unbelievable, I No longer have to carry Medication all the time. I feel like I’m a new person.”
- Anj, Hälss Burnham Clinic
Your Next Step
Whether you're dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or simply feel "out of sync", we're here to help you decide the best course of action.
Book a consultation at one of our six Hälsa clinics, in Bracknell, Burnham, Godalming, Maidenhead, Marlow or New Malden and we’ll guide you through your options.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chiropractic vs Physiotherapy
Q: Is chiropractic treatment safe?
A: Yes, when carried out by a fully qualified and registered practitioner, chiropractic care is both safe and effective. All chiropractors at Hälsa are registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and follow rigorous clinical standards. Mild post-treatment soreness is possible but temporary.
Q: Do I need a GP referral to see a chiropractor or physiotherapist at Hälsa?
A: No, you can book directly with either type of practitioner at Hälsa. However, if you’re planning to use private health insurance, some providers may require a GP referral or pre-authorisation.
Q: How do I know which therapy is right for me?
A: If your symptoms relate to posture, spinal stiffness, or nerve irritation (such assciatica), chiropractic tyreatment may be more suitable. For injury rehab, chronic pain,or rebuilding strength and movement, physiotherapy is usually the better fit. Our clinicians will assess and advise on the most appropriate approach, or combination.
Q: What does a typical treatment plan look like?
A: A chiropractic plan might involve 6–10 sessions over a few weeks. Physiotherapy treatment often includes 4–12 sessions with a tailored home exercise programme. Plans are personalised based on your goals and progress.
Q: Are chiropractic and physiotherapy sessions covered by insurance?
A: Yes, most major UK insurers (e.g. Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva) cover both. Our team can help you confirm your benefits and handle claims.
Q: Can I see both a chiropractor and physiotherapist at the same time?
A: Absolutely. Many Hälsa clients follow a dual pathway. Our team works collaboratively, ensuring each therapy complements the other, enhancing outcomes and speeding up recovery.
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