Back pain can keep you from doing what you want, whether it’s exercising or taking care of housework. It can even keep you from resting comfortably. If you’re tired of dealing with pain, consider consulting a physical therapist. A professional at Forever Fit can offer a variety of treatments designed for back pain.
Potential causes of back pain and PT treatments that can help
Back pain can stem from a wide range of causes, from an acute injury to a chronic condition. Some of the most common reasons for back pain are:
- Heavy lifting in the gym, home or workplace
Lifting heavy items repeatedly, especially without proper form, can strain muscles or tendons. Trying to lift heavy objects when you do not typically handle high weights may make injury more likely.
- Disc issues like bulging or ruptured discs
Discs are small parts of your body that serve as cushions between bones in your spine. They do not always cause symptoms when damaged, but they may cause pain or other symptoms if the damage leads to pressure on a nerve.
- Osteoarthritic damage to cartilage or bones in the back
Many people develop osteoarthritis over time. Osteoarthritis can develop with aging or in relationship to repetitive motions at work or in sports. It can lead to spinal stenosis, a condition that puts the spinal cord under pressure.
A few other causes include osteoporosis and an inflammatory disease called ankylosing spondylitis. This wide array of causes has a large range of potential solutions. Here are three drug-free treatment options for back pain:
-
The Graston Technique®
This form of physical therapy was developed to address injuries and is often used for musculoskeletal conditions. It targets trigger points and scar tissue to help reduce pain and increase mobility.
What it may treat
The Graston Technique may be used for back pain that comes from tense muscles, pulled ligaments or scar tissue. It’s often used by people dealing with chronic pain or recovering from injuries. It has a resemblance to massage that may make it a comforting option if your back problem causes too much pain or tension for you to try typical physical therapy exercises.
How it works
With the Graston Technique, your physical therapist will use specialized stainless steel tools to apply pressure to your skin, following gentle and massage-like motions. They’ll target areas of high tension or use their tools to release trigger points.
-
Sports performance training
This type of physical therapy is tailored to athletes, from weekend warriors to professionals. It includes techniques to improve performance as well as techniques to address injuries.
What it may treat
It may treat back pain related to sports injuries, including acute and chronic pain. You may come to us at Forever Fit to treat pain from long-term issues like scoliosis or sciatica. You can also use sports performance training to maintain your abilities in your sport and help prevent future back pain.
How it works
Sports performance training can include stretches, strengthening exercises and balancing exercises. It can be fully tailored to your goals, which may include stretching a tense back or strengthening the muscles that uphold healthier posture.
-
Manual therapy
This form of treatment is a massage-like application of pressure to sore or stiff areas of the body. It may include specialized techniques like soft tissue mobilization or strain-counterstrain.
What it may treat
Manual therapy, also called hands-on therapy, can be helpful for a wide range of acute and chronic issues, including upper back pain, lower back pain or neck pain. You may find this type of therapy helpful if you have back immobility, stiffness or pain that might prevent you from stretching without assistance.
How it works
During manual therapy, your physical therapist will apply pressure to your body in a way that feels similar to massage. They may also help you stretch gently during strain-counterstrain or joint mobilization work.
Are you dealing with back pain? Forever Fit can help
You shouldn’t have to struggle with back pain throughout your day or even at rest. To find out what may be behind your back pain, consult with a professional. You can visit a physical therapist at one of Forever Fit’s locations or try virtual care.
One of our licensed physical therapists can assess your back and related areas, like your neck, shoulders or hips. They can talk through treatment options like those listed above. You can find out about additional options, like stretches, strengthening exercises, lifestyle changes or dry needling for pain.
Call our team right away for more information or book an initial appointment.
