Low back pain is a very common ailment, with 61% of Americans experiencing low back pain at some point in their lives. The pain may come across as dull, burning, or sharp and can be in a single spot or across a broad area of the back. Depending on how long back pain symptoms persist will determine whether the pain is acute, recurrent or chronic.
- Acute – pain lasting less than 3 months
- Recurrent – acute symptoms come back
- Chronic – pain lasting longer than 3 months
If you currently have low back pain, make sure to stay active and do as much of your normal routine as possible. Bed rest for longer than a day can actually slow down your recovery.
Physical therapy is a proven and cost-effective treatment option that should be considered before invasive surgeries and costly MRIs. Studies show that early physical therapy for low back pain significantly lowers the total scope and cost of care.
Not all back pain is the same, so your treatment should be tailored to your specific symptoms and condition.
Some treatments may include:
- Manual therapy (i.e. spinal manipulations)
- Specific strengthening and flexibility exercises
- Education about how you can take better care of your back
- Training for proper lifting, bending, and sitting
- Assistance in creating a safe and effective physical activity program to improve your overall health
- Use of ice or heat treatments and/or electrical stimulation to help relieve pain