When most people think of spinal or back alignment issues, they often only think of chiropractic care or even think they need surgery to fix the issue. However, physical therapists are also trained to deal with issues involving the spine, including bulging and herniated discs, joint issues, problems associated with poor posture and other complex issues such as scoliosis of the spine.
Anyone who is having back pain regularly or has chronic tightness in any of the muscles along the spine might very well be able to benefit from a series of physical therapy treatments. If you have issues like the ones described or any other spinal issues, it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor. If physical therapy could be beneficial to your pain, a prescription for physical therapy treatment can be written.
Depending upon the issues you are currently experiencing, a qualified physical therapist may provide any or all of the following treatments as part of your recovery plan:
- instructions on the proper application of heat
- muscle stretching exercises
- ultrasound treatments
- muscle-strengthening exercises
- electrical nerve stimulation
- spinal traction
- direct hands-on manual therapy
Each of these treatments has several specific purposes. Applying heat at the right time relaxes muscles and makes them more pliable and easier to work. A physical therapist may prescribe stretching exercises during the appointment and at home to help relieve pain while also increasing flexibility. Ultrasound can provide treatment to deep joint tissues, while muscle strengthening exercises can increase muscle strength over time, providing better support for spinal structures. Electrical stimulation is sometimes used to relieve pain and muscle spasms, and spinal traction can help align the spine and relieve painful pressure on nerves and spinal discs. Physical therapists may perform certain hands-on manual manipulation techniques to mobilize or stabilize spinal joints to reduce spasms or joint dysfunction.
Want to know more about how physical therapy can help with spinal alignment issues? Contact your HROSM orthopaedic specialist at (757) 873-1554 for further steps to take to address your issues. Our providers can help you find relief.
