Understanding what is causing your back pain is the first step toward finding effective treatment. A physical therapist treats back pain by getting to the root of the problem. Typically, this complementary approach to managing back pain involves a combination of therapies, exercises, and lifestyle changes to promote healing, restore movement, and prevent further discomfort.
Back pain is a common problem with many potential causes. It may be rooted in the following:
Emotional stress may further exacerbate the pain, causing muscle tension and discomfort in the back.
Physical therapists typically work alongside other healthcare providers, particularly primary care doctors, to help patients treat their back pain. A thorough diagnosis from these medical professionals helps guide the treatment plan, as it can then be tailored to the patient's specific condition and symptoms.
In back pain treatment, physical therapy strengthens the muscles surrounding the spine, enhances flexibility, and improves posture. The treatment plans may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and lifestyle changes. These methods help alleviate the patient's back pain and reduce the likelihood of future back problems.
Back pain treatment from a physical therapist involves exercise, which promotes muscle strength and flexibility. Regular exercise can ease tension, stiffness, and discomfort, contributing to a healthier spine. A physical therapist will often recommend exercises that target the core muscles, which support the spine, as well as stretches to relieve tightness. Common exercises may include pelvic tilts, bridges, and cat-cow stretches, all of which can improve the patient's spinal alignment and reduce pressure on their back. Stretching also encourages better circulation, which encourages the injured tissues to heal and helps prevent re-injury.
Along with exercise, the physical therapist may also include manual therapy techniques in a back pain treatment plan. These hands-on approaches, such as spinal manipulation or mobilization, help alleviate pain, improve spinal alignment, and increase the range of motion. Although the area is sensitive, patients can rest assured that the physical therapist will only apply gentle pressure to their joints, muscles, and tissues around the spine.
A physical therapist can offer valuable guidance on lifestyle changes that contribute to long-term relief from back pain. For example, maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good posture can reduce strain on the back. Regular breaks to stretch, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and using supportive furniture can also contribute to better overall well-being.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary before physical therapy can begin, especially when structural issues in the spine, such as a herniated disc or severe degeneration, cannot be addressed through more conservative treatments. Procedures like spinal fusion, discectomy, or laminectomy may be required to correct these problems. Once surgery is performed, physical therapy can help patients recover, helping them rebuild their strength, mobility, and function.
A comprehensive approach to back pain treatment involves several methods, each designed to address the individual's specific needs. For many, physical therapy provides an effective, non-invasive solution that can lead to lasting relief and an improved quality of life. Learn more about how physical therapy can help you in an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://irvine.ocptclinic.com or call Orange County Physical Therapy OCPT, Inc. at (949) 777-5301 for an appointment in our Irvine office.
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