Have Back Pain? 5 Reasons to Choose PT

Back pain is the number one complaint we hear in our clinics, with patients of all ages, backgrounds and ability levels seeking a solution to their pain. At any given time, about 25% of the US population is living with some form of back pain.

If you are experiencing pain, it may be difficult to know where to start to find relief. It can be tempting to look for a “quick fix” from medication or injections, or to seek out a pricey MRI or x-ray to find answers. Medication can temporarily mask the pain but doesn’t treat the source, and expensive testing generally doesn’t contribute much to a person’s recovery.

Here are 5 reasons to choose physical therapy as your first line of defense against back pain:

• A prescription for movement. People often tend to rest when they have back pain or an injury, but studies show that properly designed activity has a positive impact on most types of back pain, while too much rest can lead to more pain. Controlled, consistent exercise can help strengthen key areas and encourage proper posture to relieve pain.
• Collaborative care. No matter what you are battling when it comes to back pain, chances are your physical therapist has seen it before. Depending on your symptoms and diagnosis, a PT can recommend resources and collaborate with your physician or surgeon on the best treatment plan for your specific needs.
• Pain is not just “part of life.” We are often surprised to hear how long patients have lived in pain before seeking treatment. Pain is not just a normal part of aging! While a bit of soreness here and there after activity may be normal, you don’t have to accept a life of chronic pain.
• The power of prevention. Physical therapists have a passion for educating their patients on how to manage their bodies and prevent future pain after they are discharged from care. Once you complete a plan of care, you’ll leave with a set of go-to exercises and tactics to use at home if you start to feel discomfort.
• The confidence to achieve YOUR goals. Your physical therapist will work closely with you to identify your goals for treatment beyond pain relief, and help you build the confidence you need to achieve them. Whether you want to resume a favorite activity, try something new, or simply sleep better each night, your physical therapist can design a treatment plan to help you achieve what’s most important to you.

Still unsure how to get started? Request a free 15-minute screening at a clinic near you to meet with an experienced physical therapist who will help you understand your treatment options.