Spine PT
Spine PT
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for a range of spine conditions. By increasing strength, endurance and flexibility, you can reduce pain and improve function.
Physical therapy includes passive treatments such as ultrasound, ice and hot packs, massage and manipulation (the therapist moving parts of your body). These can reduce pain in the short term, but research shows they are no more effective than placebos after that.
Depending on your condition and needs, therapy may include:
- Strengthening exercises for your back, abdominal muscles and hips
- Training in exercises (swimming, cycling, walking) that place less stress on your spine
- Training in exercises (swimming, cycling, walking) that place less stress on your spine
- Learning to manage pain
- Pool therapy
- Education and training about good posture
- Improving your balance and learning to avoid falls
- Endurance training
Active physical therapy, however, can reduce pain and improve function and quality of life in the long term. Your physical therapist measures your strength and how well your back or other body part can move. The therapist compares these with what healthy people your age and at ideal body weight can do.
It might take several months before you notice less pain. By the time you’re ready to begin exercising on your own, however, you are more likely to notice that your back pain is less frequent and severe.
