# What is the difference between physiotherapy, occupational therapy and chiropractic care?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/physiotherapy-vs-occupational-therapy-vs-chiropractic-care
For: Patients | Physiotherapy care | Last updated 19 October 2026

**Answer:** Physiotherapy focuses on movement, physical function and rehabilitation, using assessment, education and exercise to improve strength, balance and mobility. Occupational therapy focuses on helping people manage daily activities, work, school and routines, often by adapting tasks or environments. Chiropractic care commonly treats musculoskeletal complaints, especially spinal problems, and may use joint manipulation. Training, scope, regulation and evidence differ by country, so choose a properly qualified, registered professional whose approach fits your needs.

### Choosing the right professional

- Physiotherapy: when movement, mobility, strength, balance or recovery after injury or surgery is the main need
- Occupational therapy: when daily activities, independence, work, school, thinking or home adaptations are central
- Chiropractic care: only after checking local regulation, qualifications, the reasons for treatment and its risks
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy often work together, for example after a stroke, major injury or surgery

For back pain, the best choice depends on your symptoms, goals and local services; a qualified clinician should first check whether urgent medical review is needed. Severe injury, new weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent medical care.

## Related questions

- [Can children have physiotherapy?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-children-receive-physiotherapy)
- [Can older adults benefit from physiotherapy?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-older-adults-benefit-from-physiotherapy)
- [Can physiotherapy be combined with medication or injections?](https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/can-physiotherapy-be-combined-with-medication-or-injections)

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**About Tymira Health:** Tymira Health is a healthcare technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya. It builds Tymira360, a practice management and EHR platform for mental health, physiotherapy and dental providers, clinics, hospitals, NGOs and insurers across Africa.

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