Every now and then, your back will get stiff or sore from strain or overuse. Occasional back pain like this is a normal part of life, and it’s usually treatable with some rest and home remedies. However, when back pain persists for a long time or grows worse, you may need to visit a healthcare professional for treatment. When the pain comes back multiple times, you should seek treatment as this is an indication you are performing a movement pattern that is stressing your back, which will progress to needing surgery if not addressed.

Many people choose to visit physical therapists for back pain. Physical therapists specialize in techniques for treating the muscles, bones, joints and soft tissue in your body, which are all part of your back.

Physical therapy treatment for back pain can include:

Manual therapy

Manual therapy involves different techniques that require the use of the physical therapist’s hands, elbows or tools. The physical therapist uses manual therapy to mobilize the joints and soft tissue. The goal of manual therapy techniques is to reduce pain and improve range of motion.

Manual therapy techniques that might be used for back pain include:

• Joint mobilization
• Soft tissue mobilization
• Manual traction
• Myofascial release
• Strain-counterstrain
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization

Exercising and stretching

A frequent cause of back pain is strain and tension in the muscles or soft tissue. This includes muscles and soft tissue in the back, core, and hips. Improving the strength and flexibility of these muscles and tissue provides better support for your spine and upper body, which can reduce pain in your back.

The exercises and techniques your physical therapist will guide you through vary depending on the cause and severity of your back pain. Physical therapists are skilled at identifying which exercises are best for multiple conditions and injuries in the back.

Visit Franklin Rehabilitation for back pain treatment

If you’re suffering from frequent and severe back pain, you should visit a physical therapist at Franklin Rehabilitation for treatment. Our team uses these techniques and many more depending on your type of back pain. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.