Whats the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor? Got lower back / cocyxx pain

[Meglet]

Something weird is going on with my lower back and / or coccyx. It feels tender, aches to sit on it (but not stabbing pain) and something in my lower back clicks out if I stretch it . I haven't injured it either.

I'm pretty fit, although have had a rotten start to the year and not been to yoga and hardly done any proper exercise bar chasing 2 pre-schoolers so it might just be my muscles weakening.

But I think a session or 2 with an osteopath / chiropractor might pin point what it is. Which one do I need, I'm not sure of the difference?

bump before bedtime...

Bump as im interested too!

I think they are fairly similar. I always thought that a chiropractor folded you up in a knot and then flattened you out with a large crack and an osteopath manipulated the joints gently.

However, I've been folded up and flattened out ad an osteopath too

Both worked although the gentle manipulation was more pleasant

Giving birth sorted my coccyx out but I suspect that's not the ideal cure

I think that chiropractors are Dr's of the spine and will adjust the spinal joints to be back in alignment etc It is gentle and lovely to be put back in place by a chiropractor.
I believe that osteopaths also look at the joints but take into account the soft tissue surrounding the joints too.

Osteopaths are recognised as a profession in the UK and are regulated under the 1993 Osteopath's Act. Osteopaths in the UK require a degree in order to practise.

Chiropractors also require a degree and are regulated, but don't take too kindly to criticism

I have never been to a chiropractor but I find my osteopath extremely helpful when I have back trouble. Gentle massage with an occasional 'firm' bit - also hoistic and supportive. I always feel much better afterwards.

Osteopaths have to be trained and registered to practice with the HPA - who regulate Drs, nurses, and all other mainstream health professionals. Chiropractors are not subject to the same regulation - so you don't necessarily know what you are getting.

Thank you all . Thats dead useful.

I will have to find an osteopath then!

After a car accident I went to an osteopath - and I found the corrections they did much too "rough" and painfull. I was then recommended a McTimmoney chiropractor who worked wonders in a gentle way and I still go occassionally when I jar my back 10 years on. Whichever you decide to go to try and get a personal recommendation from a friend/work colleague rather than picking one out of yellow pages. If you decide on a chiropractor try one that has been trained in the McTimmoney method - effective but gentle.
Chiropractors are trained and regulated but some of them are registered as osteomyologists rather than chiropractors.