The Difference Between Chiropractors and Physical Therapists
Why It Matters for Your Recovery and Insurance Coverage
At Active Life Physical Therapy and Injury Care, we often get questions about the differences between chiropractors and physical therapists. After all, chiropractic care seems to be very popular in Utah.
While both professions play important roles in healthcare, their training, treatment approaches, and scope of practice are distinct. Understanding these differences is crucial for your recovery and navigating insurance coverage.
what makes THEM different
Key Differences Between
Chiropractors and Physical Therapists
Educational Background
Chiropractors (DCs) focus primarily on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, often emphasizing spinal adjustments. Their training includes chiropractic theory, anatomy, and hands-on manipulation techniques, typically completed in 4-5 years post-bachelor’s degree.
Physical Therapists (DPTs) hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, which involves 7-8 years of education, including advanced training in musculoskeletal function, movement science, rehabilitation techniques, and evidence-based practice. They are movement specialists trained to restore function, improve mobility, and reduce pain without reliance on spinal manipulation.
Scope of Practice
Chiropractors tend to focus on acute care and pain relief, often targeting specific areas of discomfort, particularly in the neck and back. If you have a joint injury, their expertise isn't as well developed as their PT counterparts.
Physical Therapists are trained to treat a wide range of conditions, including post-surgical recovery, chronic pain, sports injuries, and neurological (stroke, balance, falls) disorders. Their holistic approach addresses the root causes of dysfunction, providing comprehensive, long-term rehabilitation plans.
MEDICARE WON'T COVER PHYSICAL THERAPY A CHIROPRACTOR...
Medicare has strict guidelines regarding chiropractic care and physical therapy services. While Medicare does cover chiropractic services, it is limited solely to spinal manipulations for the treatment of neck and back pain.
Chiropractors are not authorized to bill Medicare for physical therapy codes, as Medicare explicitly requires physical therapy to be provided by a licensed physical therapist or another qualified healthcare provider within their scope of practice. As a result, if a chiropractor submits claims for physical therapy services, Medicare will deny payment.
This policy reflects Medicare’s emphasis on ensuring that physical therapy is delivered by professionals with specialized training in rehabilitation and movement science, such as Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPTs).
ACTIVE LIFE PHYSICAL THERAPY AND INJURY CARE EMPLOYS ONLY DOCTORS OF PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY.
Treatment Approach
Chiropractors primarily use spinal and joint adjustments to realign the body’s musculoskeletal structure, aiming to alleviate pain and improve function.
Physical Therapists utilize a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and dry needling. Their goal is to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and facilitate long-term functional recovery.
Insurers Prefer Therapists
Insurance Coverage Is Changing
Many insurers are re-evaluating coverage for physical therapy services provided by chiropractors. Why? Research and healthcare trends increasingly highlight the specialized training and effectiveness of treatment provided by Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPTs).
Preference for DPTs: Insurers recognize that physical therapists are uniquely equipped to handle post-surgical care, injury recovery, and chronic condition management due to their advanced training and evidence-based approach.
Limited Coverage for PT by Chiropractors: Some insurance plans are now limiting or even discontinuing coverage for physical therapy provided by chiropractors, particularly when a licensed DPT is available in the area. They want value for what they pay out in claims.