There are many common causes of both back pain and neck pain. However, both of these can be treated with physical therapy.
Causes of Back Pain:
- Changes in the spine’s anatomy
- Lumbar disc herniation
- occurs when the gel-like interior of the disc leaks outward and irritates the nerve roots. It typically causes a stabbing pain in the back of the legs and back pain.
- Lumbar degenerative disc disease
- Wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to lumbar degenerative disc disease. It causes low-level back pain.
- Osteoarthritis
- wear and tear of the facet joints in the spine. Friction can cause a pinched nerve from osteoarthritis.
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- when the sacroiliac joint has too much or too little motion, it can cause lower back pain.
Causes of Neck Pain:
- Muscle strain
- It can be due to sleeping in awkward positions, whiplash or poor posture.
- Cervical osteoarthritis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Cervical herniated disc
How Physical Therapy Can Deliver Pain Relief for Your Back and Neck:
Physical therapy is a common treatment for pain relief in the neck and back. The goals and benefits of physical therapy for neck pain and back pain include:
- Improving range of motion
- By engaging in flexibility exercises in the neck and back area, you’ll be able to move easier.
- Reducing pain and stiffness
- Passive treatments by a physical therapist will accelerate healing and lessen pain.
- Developing strength
- With specific physical exercises, you’ll be building up the muscles in the neck and back areas.
- Teaching strategies to prevent pain from recurring
- Learn proper body mechanics to avoid future injury.
- Improving the quality of life
- With physical therapy, you’ll be able to return to your regular routine must faster.
Treatments may include:
Passive Treatments: These treatments help reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness.
- Electrotherapy
- Ice packs
- Massage therapy
- Heat therapy
Active Treatments: Engaging in active exercises with a physical therapist, will improve strength and flexibility.
- Exercises
- Stretches
If you’re experiencing back pain or neck pain, call our Loudoun office today at, 703-450-4300. Get pain relief TODAY with help from our skilled physical therapists.
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