With 8 out of 10 Americans reporting that they suffer from regular and sometimes debilitating, back pain, it’s safe to say that chronic pain has reached levels that border on the epidemic in the United States.
While it’s possible to control and treat back pain, the most common treatment involves medication that can have other adverse side effects. So, is there a better, more natural way to combat back pain?
Yes, there is, and it’s called physical therapy.
Physical therapy is often recommended as a treatment for recurring, persistent back pain due to its high efficacy in regard to increasing function, decreasing pain, and developing a maintenance program to prevent further recurrences.
A physical therapy program for back pain is generally comprised of two components:
- Passive physical therapy for pain alleviation
- Active physical therapy to increase muscle strength and flexibility
Let’s take a look at some of the prominent benefits of physical therapy for back pain.
Stretches Stiff Back Muscles
One of the most common causes behind back pain is stiff muscles. This can happen either due to stress or bad posture. Both active and passive physical therapy works to release tension in stiff muscles and improve flexibility.
Muscle stretching exercises are most effective when they’re done at the same time every day. While there are many exercises that can alleviate back pain, it’s prudent to observe caution. A professional physical therapist can guide you in regard to the duration and intensity of the exercises.
Strengthens Back Muscles
Active physical therapy for back pain involves exercises, such as dynamic lumbar stabilization, which alleviate back pain by strengthening the core muscles. However, these exercises are only effective when performed correctly, which is why it’s best to enlist the help of a professional physical therapist who will guide you with the right posture.
Low Impact Aerobic Conditioning
Low impact aerobics can play a critical role in long-term pain reduction. There’s a myriad of options available, including walking, swimming, bicycling, and water therapy. Aerobic exercises are often found to be most effective when they’re performed 3-4 times weekly for a duration of 30 to 40 minutes, on alternate days from the strengthening exercises.
ProMove PT Pain Specialists is a private physical therapy center in Bethesda that specializes in physical therapy for back pain. The clinic focuses on reliable treatment methods for best therapy care, under the supervision of the expert, Dr. Michelle Finnegan. Contact (301) 388-8822 for more information or send us an email at finnegan@promovept.com.