Back pain is one of the most common complaints among people of all ages and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Symptoms may develop in the neck, upper back, middle back, or lower back. In some cases, back pain can persist for months and months, developing into chronic back pain.

There are many different causes of back pain, from a muscle strain to a herniated disc. Fortunately, there are many different forms of therapy that can be used to treat back pain. The right approach will depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

At FYZICAL – Mechanicsburg, our physical therapy team can help address the symptoms and limitations of all forms of back pain. Physical therapy is an excellent starting point for treating painful back symptoms, such as stiffness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty with everyday tasks. This includes chronic back pain therapy in Mechanicsburg for more long-term symptoms.

Physical Therapy For Back Pain

Physical therapy is a great rehabilitative tool for back pain. In fact, it is often the first line of treatment for back pain. Physical therapy is a form of rehabilitation that is designed to strengthen the muscles in the back, improve flexibility, and promote overall health. It is particularly beneficial for back pain, which is often associated with stiffness, weakness, and reduced range of motion. Physical therapy can also help to improve posture and prevent the risk of future back problems.

How Physical Therapy Works For Back Pain

Physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment option for back pain that involves exercises and stretches designed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further injury. Physical therapists work with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address the specific causes of their back pain. Here are some ways that physical therapy can work for back pain:

Identifying The Source Of The Pain

Physical therapists will start by evaluating a patient’s condition to determine the source of their back pain. This may involve reviewing the patient’s history, completing a physical exam, and using special tests. Once the cause of the pain has been identified, the therapist can develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Strengthening Exercises

Weakness in the muscles of the back and core can contribute to back pain. Physical therapists can develop exercise programs that target these muscles to help build strength and improve posture. Common exercises used in physical therapy for back pain include pelvic tilts, bridges, and planks.

Stretching Exercises

Tightness in the muscles of the back and hips can also contribute to back pain. Physical therapists may recommend stretching exercises such as hamstring stretches, hip flexor stretches, and spinal twists to help improve range of motion and reduce pain.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilization can be used to help reduce pain and improve mobility. Physical therapists may use these techniques in combination with exercise to help patients achieve their treatment goals.

Education

Physical therapists can also provide patients with education and guidance on how to manage their back pain. This may include advice on proper posture, lifting techniques, and exercises that can be done at home to help manage pain and prevent further injury.

Other Therapies For Back Pain

Physical therapy is sometimes combined with other therapies to address multiple issues and promote a faster recovery. These include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that is used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. It can also be effective for treating chronic pain, including back pain. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that can contribute to pain and is usually guided by a psychologist.
• Medical input: In some cases, a physical therapist may refer to the medical team for further treatment or investigations, such as imaging. A doctor may recommend treatments such as corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain in the short-term. As a last resort, the medical team may recommend a consultation with a surgeon to discuss surgical options. However, this is usually only considered when other conservative (non-surgical) treatments have not been successful in managing the pain and symptoms.

Get Help For Back Pain From A Qualified Physiotherapist

Physical therapy is an excellent starting point for treating all different forms of back pain. Physical therapists are experts in assessing, understanding, and prescribing effective treatments for back pain. By addressing the underlying causes of the pain and providing patients with a personalized treatment plan, physical therapists can help patients reduce pain and improve overall quality of life. It is important to work with a qualified physical therapist who has experience treating back pain to ensure the best possible outcome.

Don’t let chronic pain get in the way of everyday life. Find the right Physical therapy in Mechanicsburg.