Chiropractors can't prescribe medication, but may recommend herbal treatments.
Though a general practitioner (GP) and a chiropractor share some common traits -- both hold the title of doctor and each must undergo extensive education to obtain a license to practice -- the care they provide takes very different forms.
Conditions Treated
Your general practitioner can diagnose and treat conditions related to most of the body's systems. Chiropractors specialize in treating conditions that effect the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.
Medication
Your chiropractor may recommend exercises and muscle therapies, but he can't prescribe medications. Only medical doctors like your general practitioner can obtain a license to prescribe.
Referrals
If you have health insurance, you can visit a general practitioner when you get sick without getting permission from your insurance company. When considering a chiropractor, however, check the rules for your policy. Some insurance companies classify chiropractors as specialists and require you to obtain a referral before seeking treatment.
Manual Therapy
General practitioners do not perform therapies, and instead will refer you to an outside professional if your condition requires hands-on treatment. Chiropractors perform adjustments themselves, and supervise the application of muscle therapies by chiropractic assistants inside the office.
Tags: general practitioner, muscle therapies, obtain license