Back pain is one of the most common reasons people book a health appointment, and one of the most common questions we hear is: should I see a physiotherapist, a chiropractor or a massage therapist? All three treat back pain, and all three are available at New West Wellness Centre. Here’s how they differ, so you can pick a starting point.
The short answer
| Physiotherapy | Chiropractic | Registered Massage Therapy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main focus | Movement, strength and getting back to activity | Joint and spine movement | Muscles and soft tissue |
| A typical visit | Assessment, hands-on treatment, exercises to do at home | Assessment, adjustments or low-force techniques, soft tissue work | Hands-on massage tailored to tight or sore areas |
| Good starting point if… | Pain came from an injury, surgery, or keeps coming back | Your back or neck feels stiff or “stuck” | Tension, stress or muscle tightness is a big part of it |
| Direct billing | Most extended health plans, ICBC, WorkSafeBC | Most extended health plans, ICBC, WorkSafeBC (Dr. Kalsi) | Most extended health plans, ICBC |
Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist looks at how you move as a whole: your back, but also your hips, core and posture. Treatment usually combines hands-on techniques with a home exercise program, so you have tools between visits. Physiotherapy is often a good first stop after an injury, after surgery, or when back pain keeps returning. Meet our physiotherapist, Bhavin Patel.
Chiropractic care
A chiropractor focuses on how the joints of your spine and pelvis move. Treatment may include spinal adjustments, low-force instrument techniques, soft tissue work and stretches. If you would rather not be adjusted, just say so. Meet our chiropractors.
Registered massage therapy
A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) works on the muscles and soft tissues around your spine. Massage is a common choice when muscle tension, desk posture or stress are part of the picture, and many patients use it alongside physio or chiro. Learn about massage therapy.
Can I combine them?
Yes. Many patients do. A common pattern is physiotherapy for exercises and strength, plus massage or chiropractic for hands-on care. Because all three are in the same clinic, you can book back-to-back visits, and practitioners can refer you to each other if someone else is a better fit.
When to see a doctor first
See a doctor or go to emergency right away if back pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, new weakness in your legs, fever, or follows a serious fall or accident.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book physiotherapy, chiropractic or massage therapy. Some extended health plans ask for one before they will pay, so check your plan.
Which is covered by my benefits?
Most extended health plans cover all three, often with separate amounts for each. We direct bill most plans.
I’m still not sure where to start.
Book a free 15-minute Physio Discovery Session (a phone call with Bhavin), or see our Conditions We Treat page for who can help with what.
New West Wellness Centre, 815 1st St #140, New Westminster, BC V3L 2H7. Entrance on Ovens Avenue. Free 2-hour street parking.
