Low back and neck pain may affect virtually everyone at some time during their life. Back pain ranks high among the reasons for physician office visits and are costly in terms of medical treatment, lost productivity, and diminished ability to perform and enjoy everyday activities.

Common reasons for spinal injuries may be due to improper lifting, falls, and motor vehicle accidents. However, back pain can also be caused by many other things such as arthritis, disc problems, faulty postural alignment, repetitive overuse and deconditioning.

A Physical Therapist’s experience in spinal care and knowledge in anatomy and biomechanics equips them to care for patients suffering from back pain and related symptoms.

Examples of some commonly used treatments for neck and low back pain include:

• Manual therapy uses hands on active and passive interventions such as soft tissue mobilization(massage), manipulation, myofascial release and postural restoration techniques. Manual therapy interventions are helpful to decrease pain and to improve range of motion and flexibility to stiff joints and muscles.
• Spinal stabilization exercises are designed to help strengthen and re-educate muscles that help maintain proper postural alignment. Spinal segments are considered the “core”, meaning your center. Good spinal and core control foster better limb movement and therefore overall healthier performance of the entire body.
• Aquatic therapy, or pool, is often used in conjunction with spinal stabilization exercises and manual therapy techniques. Aquatic therapy is unique in that it decreases impact while promoting mobility and stability. The buoyancy of water facilitates mobility and assists with exercise.
• Modalities such as heat, ice, electrical stimulation, laser light therapy and ultrasound can help to relieve and control pain as well as promote healing.

For more information regarding your particular injury please feel free to contact Timberlane Physical Therapy at 864-3785.