Is that persistent ache in your back causing you to lose sleep or making daily activities difficult? If so, you've probably already thought about finding ways to alleviate your discomfort. But what's the best way? Should you seek Physical Therapy for Back Pain?
Let's consider that question.
What types of back pain can physical therapy treat?
Physical therapy is a versatile treatment method that can address various kinds of back pain. Because physical therapists customize treatment according to the needs and conditions of each patient, they can help with various types of back pain stemming from a wide range of causes. Here are just a few of the many kinds of back pain physical therapy can treat:
- Lower-back pain: This is the most common back pain physical therapists address. Physical therapy can strengthen the lower back, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain caused by poor posture, lifting heavy objects, or any number of other underlying conditions.
- Sciatica: This condition is characterized by pain along the sciatic nerve. Physical therapy uses targeted exercises to ease pressure on the nerve.
- Herniated discs: A herniated or “slipped disc “ can press on nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Physical therapists evaluate each patient to determine the appropriate exercises, motions and techniques to reduce the pressure on the disc and surrounding nerves.
- Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal leads to nerve compression. Physical therapists will provide specific exercises to open the spine in order to reduce pressure on nerve roots, and improve posture, flexibility, and core strength.
- Post-operative recovery: If you've had back surgery, physical therapy can help you recover by restoring strength and mobility and mitigating post-operative pain and stiffness.
Understanding physical therapy for back pain
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for many people, either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). A series of exercises and treatments improve flexibility, strength, posture, and function. Physical therapy can be an excellent treatment option because it addresses the root causes rather than simply masking the symptoms.
One patient, John, suffered from back pain for months, struggling with simple tasks such as tying his shoes or lifting a box. Though painkillers provided some relief, the discomfort always returned. So, John sought treatment at Advanced Care Physical Therapy. And he was glad he did, as the results were remarkable. Through individualized exercises and treatments, we helped him strengthen his back muscles, improve his posture, and significantly decrease his pain.
Now John is free of debilitating pain and back in his daily routine.
Is physical therapy effective?
Studies show physical therapy can be highly effective in treating back pain. By targeting the root cause of the pain, physical therapists often eliminate the need for surgery or long-term prescription medications.
Physical therapy is also effective in treating specific conditions, such as sciatica, which is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve leading to pain radiating down the legs. Physical therapy for sciatica focuses on exercises that reduce nerve pressure, alleviate pain, and prevent future episodes.
Making the decision for your health
Everyone's body and situation are unique, so it's crucial to have a personalized approach to managing your pain. The therapists at Advanced Care Physical Therapy are here to listen, assess, and create a customized treatment plan for your specific needs. We'll work with you to manage your back pain and get you back to living a comfortable, pain-free life.
Advanced Care Physical Therapy for your back pain
If you're tired of dealing with persistent back issues and ready to take a proactive step toward recovery, consider physical therapy. Ask your physician about the benefits, and remember you have a team of professionals at Advanced Care Physical Therapy who are ready to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Advanced Care Physical Therapy to discover the difference our personalized, caring approach can make in your life. Call 716-282-2888.
