If you experience chronic neck and back pain, physical therapy can often go a long way in alleviating symptoms. Whether the pain is caused by an injury or weak muscles, a professional therapist can help you increase the strength and mobility of your back to manage your pain. Rather than turning to pain medications, it’s a good idea to consider this more holistic approach. Here’s a detailed look at how physical therapy can ease your pain.

The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Back Pain

Passive Therapies

This type of therapy aims to decrease your pain without any action taken directly by the patient. For example, the use of heat and ice packs can help alleviate tension and discomfort. Other forms of passive therapy include ultrasound and iontophoresis, which can bring the pain to a much more manageable level.

Stretching

While passive therapies are a great start to physical therapy, you should also consider a comprehensive exercise program to restore spinal health. This includes stretching exercises, such as the hamstring stretch, which lengthens and reduces tension in the muscle. This, in turn, reduces tension in the lower back to alleviate symptoms of pain. With the help of a therapist, you can also complete other stretches to loosen your muscles appropriately. 

Strengthening

Other physical therapy exercises can also improve your back strength. Often, symptoms of pain are caused by straining weak muscles during every day activities, such as lifting or even walking. Prescribed exercises, however, can stabilize your lumbar region and strengthen your core. To maximize your benefits from such exercises, it’s best to practice these exercises under the guidance of a professional.

 

If you suffer from chronic back pain, turn to the physical therapy experts at Evergreen Pain Management & Rehabilitation, based in Sheffield Lake, OH. With a compassionate and friendly team, this physical rehabilitation center offers the services necessary to help you on your path to recovery. To schedule an appointment, give them a call today at (440) 240-9111. You can also find more information on physical therapy online.