Chiropractor, Orthopedic Surgeon and Physiotherapist

If you have back pain and want to seek professional advice, Chiropractor Orthopedic Surgeon Physiotherapist

Which healthcare professional would be more suitable for you? How should you choose between them?

Chiropractor

Doctors of Chiropractic (registered chiropractors) are primary healthcare professionals that provide chiropractic care to their patients. Unlike traditional medical doctors that utilize medicine and surgery, chiropractors provide non-invasive treatments such as manual chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises and prescription orthotics.

Chiropractors mainly focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of spinal bone and joint conditions as well as extremities. Chiropractors may utilize X-rays or MRIs in their diagnostic protocol to better their patient management and treatment approach. Supportive exercise recommendations may also be provided for a more comprehensive and holistic recovery.

Non-registered personnel claiming to practice chiropractic as a chiropractor is illegal in Hong Kong. Illegal practice can subject such individuals to HKD50,000 fine and up to 1 year imprisonment.

Orthopedic Surgeon

Orthopedic surgeon is a traditional medical doctor that is specialized in orthopedic surgery. Their scope includes diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of injuries, disorders and diseases of the body’s musculoskeletal systems. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and tendons.

Certain orthopedic surgeons might specialise in certain areas, such as the foot and ankle, hand, shoulder and elbow, spine, hip or knee. Orthopaedic surgeons may also choose to focus on specific fields like paediatrics, trauma, reconstructive surgery, oncology (tumours) or sports medicine.

Common orthopedic surgeries can include arthoscopy, fusion, internal fixation, joint replacement, osteotomy and decompressive surgery. Aside from surgical options, orthopedic surgeons may also prescribe medications and refer patients to supplementary healthcare providers such as physiotherapists for rehabilitive care.

Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists or physical therapists are supplementary medical professionals in Hong Kong, registered under the Supplementary Medical Professions Council. Physiotherapy is part of the traditional medical care system where medical doctors would refer patients to physiotherapists for care.

Physiotherapists mainly work with orthopedic surgeons to help their patients recover from a surgery or an injury. Sporting injuries such as muscular sprain and strain are also common conditions treated by physiotherapists.

Treatment usually includes exercise therapy, electrotherapy, functional training and acupuncture (dry needling) to promote healing and pain control.

Physiotherapy is a Bachelor of Science degree in Hong Kong with a duration of 4 years full time study. All physiotherapists must be registered with the Physiotherapist Board in Hong Kong.

Is chiropractic suitable for you?

Doctors of chiropractic (registered chiropractors) can provide conservative treatment options to treat spinal problems, alternative to the traditional medical treatment system. Chiropractors mainly diagnose and treat spinal neurophysiological dysfunctions, patho-mechanical conditions and pain syndromes related to the human body’s active functional systems (especially the spine and pelvis).

Service scope covers:

Diagnosis of spinal problems
Static and dynamic palpation examination
Spinal thermography scan (Nervoscope)
Imaging diagnosis (X-ray and MRI) and laboratory testing
Chiropractic treatment (Manual adjustments)
Supportive care (Prescriptive orthotics and rehabilitation exercises)
Provide dietary or nutritional supplement recommendations
Chiropractic health and wellness education

Chiropractors treat patients of all ages, from children to the elderly. Common spinal problems include; scoliosis, sciatica, vertebral disc herniation, subluxations, numbness or tingling in limbs, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) etc.

How to choose the right chiropractor

Choosing the right chiropractor in Hong Kong is an important decision. You can find a suitable chiropractor for yourself and your family by evaluating the chiropractor’s qualifications and educational background, treatment methods and his reviews. An initial consultation with the chiropractor can also give you a better insight to his professionalism.

Considering the geographic location and accessibility of the clinic in Hong Kong is also crucial for treatment visits. If regular treatment is needed, choosing a nearby chiropractor can save travel time and related inconveniences. Additionally, the clinic building’s accessibility features are factors also worth considering.

Unregistered Therapists

In Hong Kong, the above three types of medical professionals (chiropractors, orthopedic surgeons, and physiotherapists) all hold professional licenses and registrations issued by their respective Board Council under the Department of Health.

According to the guidelines of the Department of Health, anyone practicing chiropractic in Hong Kong must apply for registration with the Chiropractic Council; otherwise, it is a criminal offense and may result in a fine of HK$50,000 and up to 1 year imprisonment.

The educational background and qualifications of unregistered individuals are not certified, their services and conduct are also not regulated. When patients seek medical advice from unregistered individuals, they must consider the risks and consequences from such action.