26/01/2022
I understand that it can become confusing as to who to see and why, so here are the descriptive roles and main differences between a Physiotherapist, Biokineticist and Chiropractor.
The Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) explains that “a Physiotherapist assesses, treats and manages a wide variety of injuries including ailments from the fields of orthopaedics, neurology, respiratory and thoracic, cardio-vascular, obstetrics, sports medicine, paediatrics, geriatrics, intensive care units and general rehabilitation. Other medical fields and community care also falls within the scope of physiotherapy. “
The HPCSA explains that “a Biokineticist treats people with a variety of sport and orthopaedic injuries through the modality of exercise therapy which is based on scientific evidence and personalised exercise prescription. They use exercise rehabilitation for people with chronic disease, sport injuries and diseases of lifestyle. Health promotion and the maintenance of physical abilities as well as specialised physical activity programme prescriptions are within the scope of Biokinetic practice.”
The Chiropractic Association of South Africa describes Chiropractic as “a health profession specialising in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on the functioning of the nervous system and general health.”
All professions have an important role to play and it is not uncommon for the professions to refer to one another and work together as a team in providing the best possible treatment for their clients.
A physiotherapist is skilled in assessing, diagnosing and treating their clients from the acute phase to end stage management and is also involved in maintenance treatment. The Physio might choose to refer their client to the biokinetcist for end stage physical rehab if they are not well practiced in this stage of care. The “Physio” might also encourage consultations with the Chiropractor if they feel it will facilitate their clients journey to optimal movement function.
