Should you see a physical therapist or a chiropractor about your health problem? That depends on what you're looking for—while the two are similar in some ways, there are distinct differences. Knowing what you're looking for will help you decide where you can get the best care.
What Physical Therapists Do
Physical therapy is usually where people go after an accident or injury, or when they have a debilitating illness causing mobility issues. Physical therapists are licensed, trained specialists who work with you to relieve pain, improve mobility, increase range of motion, and build up strength.
When you begin seeing a physical therapist, your first visit is usually a screening during which your therapist will assess your condition and devise a treatment plan. Treatments are generally localized only to the area(s) of concern. The treatment may include both in-office and at-home exercise sessions, stretching, massage, mobility training, strength training, and/or joint mobilization.
Usually, your physical therapy appointments will be one or more times per week for a few weeks to a few months. Your therapist will monitor your progress and share that information with your doctor.
What Chiropractors Do
Chiropractors are also licensed, trained specialists who treat patients after an accident or injury or those with mobility issues. Chiropractors also see patients regularly as a preventative measure. While you can see a chiropractor for a few weeks or months for a specific issue, you can see a chiropractor regularly—even when you're healthy—to maintain wellness.
Like physical therapists, chiropractors also complete assessments of your condition and prepare a treatment plan with you. The focus of chiropractic care is to remove obstacles that are impeding the body from healing itself and working properly. Chiropractors mainly work with the spine, making adjustments to restore the proper structure of the musculoskeletal system.
Once the musculoskeletal system is restored, the Central Nervous System (CNS) can function optimally. The body's natural healing mechanisms shift into gear and begin working again. Nerve signals can flow unimpeded between the brain and the rest of the body, alleviating a wide range of symptoms.
Chiropractic treatment may also include massage therapy, laser therapy, electric muscle stimulation, nutrition counseling, and various other elements of a holistic wellness plan.
How Our Chiropractic Treatment Works
Dr. Bejian Shamloo of Upper Spine Knoxville is an upper cervical specialist. The upper cervical spine is particularly vulnerable to misalignments and requires special care and attention. Generally, many problems caused by spinal misalignments are rooted in the upper cervical area.
Dr. Shamloo embraces state-of-the-art technology for better diagnosis and treatment. He uses 3D digital imaging scans and infrared thermography for a better image and more accurate diagnosis so he can plan treatments more precisely. As a premier upper cervical specialist, Dr. Shamloo is then able to make corrections with quick, gentle techniques.
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free, natural therapy for those with health problems, or those who want to get ahead of any problems to prevent them. Contact Dr. Shamloo for a consultation. His areas of coverage include Knoxville, Alcoa, Maryville, Farragut, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Karns, Hardin Valley, Powell, Halls, and Fountain City in Tennessee, as well as the surrounding areas.