05/09/2026
I keep seeing posts looking for certain practitioners which is very confusing so I thought I would help.
🟢A chiropractor is a licensed health care professional who diagnoses and treats disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems - Degree and protected Title - can only be used if hold that qualification.
🟢A physiotherapist is a licensed healthcare professional who helps restore, maintain, and improve a patient's physical strength, movement, and mobility - massage - Degree and protected title - can only use if hold qualification.
🟢An osteopath is a healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating problems with the body's muscles, joints, ligaments, and bones using physical manipulation - cracking- Degree and protected title
Then there are various other treatments which are diploma based, cover lots of Anatomy, some exercise, do not have a protected title but maybe registered with the CNHC as proof of qualifications- these treatments can be equally effective and in some cases more so.
Remedial massage, sports massage, Bowen Therapy, Rolfing, aromatherapy, fascial unwinding, no protected titles. These practitioners often are recommended through word of mouth due to long-standing experience and high number of patients. Pain in all areas, headaches, sciatica, jaw misalignment, sports injuries, ongoing or acute pain
I see a lot of patients who have visited a Practitioner expecting a certain treatment but not got it because they got the title wrong, the practitioner you need is often dependent on your need, expectation and injury.
If you are not sure check with the correct governing body for that qualification or the CNHC or ask the Practitioner, or check their website.