Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractic: Which Works Better for Neck Pain?

Neck pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints worldwide, often resulting from poor posture, stress, injury, or degenerative conditions like arthritis. When neck pain persists beyond a few days or becomes chronic, many people turn to conservative treatments such as physical therapy (PT) or chiropractic care. But which of the two works better for neck pain? The answer isn't always black and white—it depends on the root cause of your pain, your preferences, and how your body responds to treatment. Let’s break down both approaches and explore their differences, benefits, and which one might be right for you. Understanding Physical Therapy What It Involves: Physical therapy focuses on restoring function, improving mobility, and strengthening muscles and joints. A licensed physical therapist typically uses a combination of: Stretching and strengthening exercises Manual therapy Postural training Ergonomic and lifestyle modifications Modalities like ultra...