HOW CAN THERAPY HELP ME GET BETTER?
Exercise Increases Muscle Flexibility and Strength. As a general rule, people who are active and well-conditioned are much less likely to suffer from back and neck pain. The muscles, ligaments and tendons in the back are very important in maintaining proper spinal balance. While the spine muscles are used in everyday life, they do not get adequate exercise from daily activities and tend to weaken with age unless they are specifically exercised. Regular exercise stretches and strengthens the muscles so they are less likely to strain or tear. Muscles that are flexible and strong provide increased stability and support to the bones, joints, and discs of the spine.
Local tissue injury from conditions such as muscle strain, herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or spinal arthritis can lead to inflammation. With inflammation the muscles in the back and neck can spasm and cause severe pain and difficulty moving. The natural response to this is to not move, however research has shown that rest and inactivity weakens the muscles that support the spine and, if continued too long, can prolong recovery or even make certain conditions worse. Therapists can teach you how to move without triggering painful spasms.
Exercise promotes healing by increasing blood flow and nutrition to the injured site. After an injury such as a muscle strain, getting adequate nutrients to the site of injury is critical for healing. Exercise increases the blood flow to the muscles and ligaments, bringing additional oxygen and nutrients. Movement of the spine also brings nutrients to the spinal discs as body fluid moves into and out of the disc like water being soaked up and squeezed out of a sponge.
HOW CAN A SKILLED PHYSICAL THERAPY PROFESSIONAL HELP MAXIMIZE MY RECOVERY?
Variety of Techniques for Pain Relief. Physical therapy should focus on active exercise which has proven to be beneficial for relief of spine-related pain. There are also passive modalities that may be used such as ice or heat packs, ultrasound, and electrical muscle stimulation. These passive modalities have not been shown to work on-their-own, but may help to decrease acute pain, allowing you to begin an active exercise program. Physical therapists also use manual therapy techniques such as traction, spinal mobilization, and manipulation.
CAN'T I JUST DO THE EXERCISES ON MY OWN?
Individualized Exercise Program. Physical therapy involves evaluation of an individual's movement, physical capabilities, body type, and activity level in order to prescribe exercise and other physical means to help improve function. For certain conditions a well-trained physical therapist will develop a customized exercise program based on research of the most effective spine exercises. The exercise program's pace, specific exercises, and frequency will vary depending on the condition and the individual's needs. Developing the right exercise for the individual sometimes requires trial and error, reviewing the person's response to the exercise and adjusting the exercise accordingly.
Proper Exercise Technique
Exercises are only effective in done properly. A physical therapist will instruct a patient on the proper technique for performing each exercise in the individualized exercise program. The therapist will also cover posture and movement exercises, suggesting improvements for the patient that will provide added protection for the spine.