Chiropractic vs Physiotherapy

How the Evidence Is Shifting

For years, people with back pain were routinely told to “try physio first.” Today, that advice is changing.

As research into spinal pain and nervous system function has advanced, Chiropractic care has become one of the most evidence-supported and effective approaches for lower back pain – which happens to be the number one reason people see physiotherapists.

This shift is one of the reasons now more patients and more GPs too, are choosing Chiropractic first rather than as a last resort.

Why Chiropractic Is Gaining Popularity

Lower back pain is rarely just a muscle problem.

Modern research shows it is often linked to:

• Spinal joint dysfunction
• Poor movement patterns over time
• Nervous system irritation
• Long-standing postural and mechanical stress
• These are areas where Chiropractic care excels.

Chiropractic focuses on restoring spinal motion and nervous system function,
rather than only strengthening or stretching muscles around the problem.

This is why Chiropractic is increasingly recognised as one of the most effective first-line options for chronic and recurring back pain.

Where Physiotherapy Still Shines

Physiotherapy remains an excellent choice for certain presentations,
and we regularly refer patients when physio is the better fit.

Physio is often ideal for:

• Wrist, hand, ankle, and foot injuries
• Acute sports injuries
• Post-surgical rehabilitation
• Muscle reconditioning after trauma
• Technique correction and return-to-sport training

These issues typically require targeted rehabilitation rather than spinal-based care.

Respecting these differences is part of practising safely and appropriately.

Research Shows Chronic Pain Is Where Chiropractic Is Most Effective

Chiropractic is most effective when pain:

• Has been present for months or years
• Keeps returning despite rehab or exercise
• Is associated with posture, stiffness, or reduced mobility
• Includes back pain, neck pain, headaches, or migraines

Many patients tell us they “did everything right” with physiotherapy,
only to find the relief didn’t last.

In many cases, the missing piece was addressing spinal mechanics and nervous system involvement, not just muscles.

A Smarter, More Informed Starting Point

Today, more people are choosing Chiropractic as their starting point, not because physiotherapy doesn’t work, but because the evidence now supports addressing spinal function earlier in the process.

That doesn’t mean Chiropractic replaces Physiotherapy.

It means:

• The right tool is chosen for the right problem
• Care is guided by findings, not habit
• Patients avoid unnecessary delay

This approach aligns with modern guidelines and evidence-informed practice.

Why Locals Choose Our Chiropractic Approach

Patients from Bonnyrigg, Doonside, Earlwood, and surrounding suburbs often choose us because:

• We Assess Thoroughly Before Recommending Care
  
• We Use Objective Findings, Not Guesswork
  
• We Track Progress With Structured Reviews
  
• We Focus On Long-Term Function, Not Quick Fixes
  
• We Are Clear About What We Can, and Cannot Help

This approach is also why many GPs are comfortable referring patients directly to our clinics.

How We Help You Decide

At Adjusting to Health, our role is to determine what’s appropriate, not push one option.

Through the Health Blueprint™ Process, we:

• Assess spinal and nervous system function thoroughly
• Identify whether Chiropractic is suitable
• Refer to physiotherapy or medical care when indicated

This clarity is why patients and GPs trust our recommendations.

Not Sure Which Path Is Right for You?

If you’re wondering if Chiropractic or Physiotherapy is better for lower back pain, neck pain or headaches you're not alone. If you're dealing with ongoing back or neck pain and ready to take action but just simply unsure where to start, the best next step to take is to schedule a proper assessment with our doctors so they can then provide best honest recommendations for you.