When pain slows you down, whether it’s from an injury, poor posture, or the demands of daily life, it can be tough to know where to start. Chiropractors and physiotherapists are both trained to treat problems with movement, muscles, and joints, but they use different techniques to help you heal.  At Couve Health, we offer both chiropractic and physiotherapy care under one roof, so you don’t have to guess which option is right for you. Here’s how each approach works, and how they can complement each other to support your recovery and long-term health.

What Does a Chiropractor Do?

Chiropractors focus on how your spine, joints, and nervous system work together. They use hands-on adjustments (called spinal manipulations) to help realign the body, reduce pain, and improve movement. Chiropractic care is especially helpful for:

• Back and neck pain
• Joint issues
• Sciatica or nerve pain
• Sports Injuries
• Headaches

At Couve Health, our chiropractors also incorporate manual therapy, soft tissue techniques, and movement education. It’s more than just adjustments.

Incorporating manual therapy into your treatment plan means you’re receiving targeted care that accelerates recovery, enhances circulation, and supports tissue repair. This is all essential for getting back to peak performance.

What Does a Physiotherapist Do?

Physiotherapists take a broader look at how your muscles, joints, and nerves are functioning. They focus on movement and rehabilitation, using a mix of manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and education. Physiotherapy is great for:

• Recovering from injuries or surgery
• Sports rehab
• Chronic pain or arthritis
• Balance and coordination issues
• Preventing future injuries

Our physiotherapists at Couve Health use personalized treatment plans to help you move with less pain and more confidence.

Key Differences Between Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Care

Focus:

• Chiropractors focus on the spine, joints, and nervous system.
• Physiotherapists focus on overall body movement and rehabilitation.

Treatment Approach:

• Chiropractors use hands-on adjustments and manual therapy to realign the body and relieve pressure.
• Physiotherapists combine manual therapy with guided exercises to restore strength and mobility.

Best For:

• Chiropractic care is ideal for alignment issues, nerve pain, postural problems, and spine-related discomfort.
• Physiotherapy is especially helpful for injury recovery, post-surgical rehab, chronic pain, and prevention.

Education:

• Chiropractors hold a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree.
• Physiotherapists earn a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy.

How to Choose the Right Care

You don’t have to decide alone. At Couve Health, our team of chiropractors and physiotherapists work together—and often co-treat—so you get the most effective care. Your treatment plan is based on your needs, not a one-size-fits-all model.

Whether you’re managing a new injury, chronic pain, or just want to move better, we’ll help you find the right path forward. Book your consultation today at one of our convenient clinics in Vancouver:

222 W Broadway, Vancouver
658 Homer Street, Downtown Vancouver