The use of some type of physical therapy or exercise is integral to almost all forms of back and neck pain treatment. Sometimes physical therapy and exercise are the first lines of treatment, other times it may help manage chronic pain, or provide rehabilitation after surgery. But did you know that both gentle back exercise and physical therapy play a vital role in relieving pain?
Physical therapy and exercise are perhaps the most mainstream of all non-surgical treatments for back pain and neck pain. And unlike other conservative treatments (medication, injections, etc.), physical therapy can also help prevent and/or lessen future recurrences of back pain or neck pain. Below are 6 steps you can take to get pain relief from incorporating physical therapy or another kind of exercise into your routine.
Please remember that it is always advisable to check with your physician prior to beginning any exercise program.
- Find the right type of help.
Depending on your condition, you may need a healthcare professional to help you develop an appropriate list of activities to engage in and to avoid, as well as to develop and instruct you on an appropriate exercise program.Several different types of health professionals may provide physical therapy, including physical therapists, many chiropractors, and physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians (physiatrists). - Alleviate the acute pain before you begin to exercise.When you’re in a lot of pain, the thought of active rehabilitation and exercise can be pretty daunting. 1 or a combination of the following passive pain-relieving techniques (modalities) may be used:
- Electrical stimulation (e.g. TENS units)
- Heat and/or cold therapy
- Ultrasound
- Massage therapy
- Manual manipulation
Other treatments may also be needed to sufficiently reduce your pain. All of the above therapies are designed with one goal in mind: providing enough pain relief to help you progress to an active exercise program.
- Get others in your camp.The common belief is that to heal back problems, those who experience pain should refrain from physical activity. Consequently, many of your friends or family may encourage you to rest if the exercise is causing you to struggle. By explaining ahead of time, they can understand how active rehabilitation is best for managing your condition. If you want support or help, you can also ask them to join you or encourage you during your exercises.
Updated: 03/06/2015
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