Back Pain

What causes back pain?

Damage to any of the structures in your spine or the surrounding soft tissues can cause back pain, which is a leading cause of disability in the United States. Muscle strains are a common cause of back pain and can happen for reasons such as:

• Trips and falls
• Auto accidents
• Sports injuries
• Poor posture
• Using unsafe lifting techniques
• Making repetitive or sudden, awkward movements

Besides muscle strains, you could have back pain from other acute injuries, like tendon and ligament damage. Or you might develop back pain as a result of a chronic condition like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, or degenerative disc disease.

What treatments are available for back pain?

If you have a mild twinge in your back, rest, apply an ice pack, and gentle movements should resolve it within a few days. Many people rely on pain medication to control their back pain, but this doesn't address the underlying cause. In many cases, physical therapy can get to the root of your pain.

The expert therapists at Performance Therapy Institute treat back pain using:

• Stretching
• Strengthening
• Hot and cold packs
• Massage therapy
• Therapeutic ultrasound
• Electric stimulation
• Laser therapy
• Myofascial release
  
  

Physical therapy forms the basis of most rehabilitation programs for patients with back pain, even when their condition requires spinal surgery.

Can I prevent back pain?

Being physically active is an excellent way to keep your back strong and avoid the causes of back pain. Regular exercise builds strength in your back muscles and core, so you aren't placing excess strain on your back.

Improving your posture is also important—slumping on the couch or sitting hunched over a keyboard can cause problems with your back. If you're carrying extra pounds, weight loss might be something you need to consider, too.

You can help prevent back pain by learning how to lift and carry correctly and avoiding overexertion or making awkward twisting movements. Your physical therapist can show you how to achieve these goals and keep your back healthy and pain-free.

To benefit from the team experience and expertise at Performance Therapy Institute,  call their office or book an appointment online today.