4 Ways Physical Therapy Can Help With Lower Back Pain
Individuals struggle with back pain more than any other orthopedic condition. According to a survey by the American Physical Therapy Association, almost two-thirds of Americans endure lower back pain, but only 37% seek help from a professional for pain relief. And yet, there are simple ways anyone can solve chronic lower back pain without surgery or painkillers.
Stretching
Exercise and proper stretching of the muscles in the lower back, abdomen, hips, and legs is crucial for those with lower back pain. Both stretching and exercise help maintain normal range of motion, and grant relief for muscles due to lack of use, or those that spasm because of nerve irritation or improper posture.
Movement Control Exercises
The goal of movement control exercise is to retrain the spine’s muscles to support and regulate the spine through various ranges of motion and everyday activities. Several patients with both acute and persistent low back pain have used poor movement patterns that play a large part in their current or continuous pain.
Manual Therapy
To assist in alleviating non-specific lower back pain, the combination of manual therapy and exercise are most effective. These techniques involve joint and soft tissue mobilization, dry needling, passive stretching, and Myofascial release (gentle pressure to Myofascial connective tissue. Implementing these techniques allows the patient to move easier, with less pain and more trust in their spine, leading to a faster recovery and return to normal life activities.
Education
Educating patients to understand and manage their lower back pain, and helping them plan the best path forward subdues their fear of movement, can help alleviate pain, and largely assists in the healing and recovery process.