Back Pain

 

Back pain/injuries can affect any part of the spine. Physical therapists treat cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar and sacral (low back) injuries. A back injury may involve muscles, bones, joints and/or nerves. Some examples of back injuries include whiplash, spondylolisthesis, spondylolysis, stenosis, scoliosis, sciatica, muscle strains, herniated discs and facet joint syndrome. 

 

Symptoms: Back pain can manifest itself at the site of injury or you may have referred pain. If you injure your neck, you may have pain and/or numbness and tingling in your upper extremities. A low back injury may refer pain and/or numbness and tingling into the lower extremities. Other symptoms may include muscle spasms, loss of mobility and weakness. 

 

Treatment: Physical therapy techniques vary depending on the injury but will focus on decreasing pain, restoring motion and improving strength. Treatment may include modalities (electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat and ice), manual therapy techniques including joint mobilization and myofascial release as well as specific stretching and strengthening exercises. Once alignment and joint mobility have been restored, treatment will focus on stabilization exercises to prevent reoccurence. 

 

Other information: Previous history of falls, work related injuries, motor vehicle accidents or other traumatic injuries can manifest themselves years later as back pain so it is a good idea to be evaluated by your healthcare provider after these incidents. Regular aerobic exercise as well as a stretching and strengthening exercise program can help prevent back injuries.

 

For additional information about treatment for back pain and back injuries please contact CORE Services, Inc.at 314-647-4880.