For those who suffer from back pain, the level of discomfort experienced cannot only be debilitating, but also have a significant effect on their life. If you suffer from a back condition, surgery isn't the only option. There are non-surgical treatment options available that can eliminate your discomfort and help improve your mobility. Physical therapy is one of these options.

Physical Therapy For Back Pain

Physical therapy is often associated with people who have sustained injuries from a sports related event, but this isn't all this treatment encompasses. The reality is that this form of treatment is suitable for nearly any person who experiences discomfort as a result of an injury, deformity or disease.

In terms of back conditions, pain associated with degenerative disc disease, spondylosis and lower back sprain are just some of the medical concerns it can help treat. When utilizing this treatment method for back pain the goal is to minimize pain, improve function and teach the patient how to prevent future discomfort.

Treatment Options

The two most common forms of treatment for back pain include active physical therapy and passive physical therapy.

Active Physical Therapy. Active physical therapy requires a hands-on approach by the patient. Instead of just being treated by the medical professional, the patient somewhat learns how to treat themselves. This process is achieved by teaching the patient how to stretch and exercise to minimize discomfort. It is thought that the individual will be able to rely on these skills should they experience discomfort in the future.

Passive Physical Therapy. With passive therapy, the medical professional takes the leading role. This type of treatment includes the use of medical applications to ease discomfort, such as electrical stimulation. Passive therapy is most often used to treat a short-term condition like a lower back sprain. The patient will undergo this form of treatment only until the condition has subdued and they are no longer affected by it, in terms of discomfort.

When Is It Right?

Physical therapy may not be an option for every person. This is especially the case if the cause of the pain has not been diagnosed. The type of condition you are dealing with will be an important factor when determining the type of treatment plan you are prescribed. It's imperative that you have the cause of the pain diagnosed first.

If you suffer from lower back pain, don't overlook the benefits physical therapy from a clinic like Hillcrest Nursing Center can offer you.

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