Posture Alignment vs Kiné vs Osteopath: What’s the Difference?

Since we moved to France, I quickly realized that many people here weren’t familiar with my profession as a Posture Alignment Specialist.
The first question I usually hear is: "Ah, so you’re a kiné (physiotherapist) or maybe an osteopath?"

The answer is: neither , but there are similarities.
Let me explain the difference so you can better understand how posture alignment fits into the world of movement and pain relief.

The French Favorites: Kinésithérapeutes and Ostéopathes

Kinésithérapeute (Physiotherapist)

• A medical profession regulated by the French healthcare system.

• Clients usually see a kiné with a prescription from their doctor , for example, after an injury, surgery, or chronic pain diagnosis.

• A kiné’s focus is on rehabilitation and recovery, often using manual therapy, machines, and targeted exercises.

• Sessions are typically 20 minutes long, and they are covered by Sécurité Sociale (French health insurance).

 Think of a kiné as someone who helps you heal after something has gone wrong.

Ostéopathe (Osteopath)

• In France, osteopaths are highly trained manual therapists who work to restore balance to the body through hands-on techniques.

• They focus on the bones, joints, fascia, and organs to improve mobility, circulation, and overall health.

• Many people visit an osteopath for preventive care or when they feel “blocked” or out of alignment.

• Sessions last longer than with a kiné (often 45–60 minutes) and are not covered by standard health insurance, although some private insurance (mutuelles) may reimburse part of the cost.

Think of an osteopath as someone who helps your body move freely and function smoothly.

What Is a Posture Alignment Specialist?

A Posture Alignment Specialist looks at the entire body as a connected system.
Our goal is not just to relieve pain but to address the root cause by improving alignment and movement patterns.

Here’s what makes it unique:

• Holistic focus: Instead of treating only the area of pain (like the knee or back), we look at how the whole body works together.
  For example: knee pain might actually come from hip imbalance or foot posture.

• Movement-based approach: We use specific corrective exercises, not machines or passive treatment, to restore balance to the muscles and joints.

• Client-driven: You are actively involved in your recovery. No lying on a table while someone works on you , you learn how to move your body differently to prevent pain from returning.

• Education and independence: Our ultimate goal is to teach you to understand your own body, so you can continue improving outside of our sessions.

 Think of posture alignment as a way to retrain your body , like physical therapy and movement education combined.

How They Work Together

These three professions can complement each other beautifully:

• After an injury or surgery, you might start with a kiné to regain basic function and healing.

• If you feel restricted or “stuck,” an osteopath can release tension and improve mobility.

• For long-term results and prevention, a posture alignment specialist helps you create lasting balance through movement and exercises.

Imagine it like this:

• The kiné fixes the emergency.

• The osteopath unlocks tight doors.

• The posture alignment specialist helps you build a strong, stable house so problems don’t come back.

Who Should See a Posture Alignment Specialist?

• You might benefit from posture alignment work if you:

• Have chronic pain that keeps coming back, even after other treatments.

• Want to improve posture and move with more ease.

• Have scoliosis, spinal fusion, or other structural imbalances.

• Are an athlete or active person looking to improve performance and prevent injuries.

• Simply want to age well and keep your body moving freely for years to come.

Why I Do What I Do

My own journey with scoliosis and spinal fusion taught me that pain is rarely just about one part of the body. By looking at the body as a whole, we can create real, lasting change, not just temporary relief.

I love working alongside kinés and osteopaths, giving clients a team approach to their health.
Because when your body is aligned and moving well, everything feels better.