Can physical therapy help with back pain

What is Back Pain and How Can Physical Therapy Help?  

Acute or short-term low back pain generally lasts from a few days to a few weeks. Most acute back pain is the result of trauma to the lower back or a disorder such as arthritis. A sports injury may cause back pain from trauma, work around the house or in the garden, or a sudden jolt such as a car accident or other stress on spinal bones and tissues. Symptoms of back pain may range from muscle ache to shooting or stabbing pain, limited flexibility and range of motion, or an inability to stand straight. Chronic back pain is pain that persists for more than three months. It is often progressive, and the cause can be challenging to determine. Physical therapy can help relieve the symptoms of back pain.

Can Physical Therapy be treated without surgery? 

Most low back pain will get stronger through physical therapy and not require surgery. Treatment involves using over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce discomfort and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation. The goal of therapy is to restore proper function and strength of the back. Another goal is to prevent the recurrence of the injury. Effective pain relief may involve a combination of prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies such as hot compresses. Hot compresses may help reduce pain and inflammation and allow greater mobility for some individuals. However, the use of warm compresses is not proven to work scientifically. Another option is bed rest. Bed rest is recommended for 1–2 days at most. Individuals should resume activities as soon as possible.

Exercise may be the most effective way to speed recovery from low back pain and help strengthen back and abdominal muscles. In the most severe cases, when the condition does not respond to other therapies, surgery may relieve pain caused by back problems or serious musculoskeletal injuries. Movement Solutions has extensive experience and education in the treatment and relief of back pain through a combination of proper hands-on therapy and corrective movement. Most patients feel relief from their back pain symptoms after the first visit.

How long will it take to recover from back painfully? 

Most patients with back pain recover without residual functional loss. Still, individuals should contact a doctor if there is not a noticeable reduction in pain and inflammation after 72 hours of self-care. Recurring back pain resulting from improper body mechanics or other non-traumatic causes is often preventable. Engaging in exercises that don’t jolt or strain the back, maintaining correct posture, and lifting objects properly can help prevent injuries. Many work-related injuries are caused or aggravated by stressors such as heavy lifting, vibration, repetitive motion, and awkward posture. Applying ergonomic principles such as proper sitting and bending will protect the body from injury. At home and in the workplace can significantly reduce the risk of back injury and help maintain a healthy back.