Back pain can come from multiple different sources and can occur for a number of different reasons. The muscles, lumbar discs in between the bones and the joints of the spine can all be sources of back pain. These are all things that coming to PT can address as well!
So what can I try when experiencing a bout of pain?
- If you injured your back after carrying/lifting or twisting try icing it 10-12 minutes 2-3 times per day.
- After 1-2 weeks if you are not feeling better you can visit your primary care physician or come to PT
- If after 2-3 weeks with no improvement in your symptoms definitely come in for PT!
Why would PT be beneficial for my pain?
Coming to PT after an initial onset of pain can help do multiple things:
- Address muscle weakness that contribute to excess stress on your back
- Address postural problems/ your work set up or sitting posture
- Improve limitations in range of motion
- Improve your ability to self-manage at home and decrease likelihood for re-injury
How do I know if the injury is more serious?
Injuring your back can be very painful and scary as your spinal cord and important nerves are back there. But, most often a back injury is not serious and won’t require surgery.
A more serious injury would be accompanied by things such as:
- A serious car accident or a fall from even 1-2 feet (ie off a small ladder)
- You are having difficulty walking due to weakness in one or both legs
- Numbness or tingling in both legs and or the groin/genitals
- You are having abnormal changes in urination or defecation after the injury
- The pain is severe and accompanied by one or all of the above
The symptoms above are not an all encompassing list, but if there is anything worrying you don’t hesitate to get to the emergency room or an urgent care if you are unsure.
Symptoms of a Less Serious Injury
In the event of a less serious injury, symptoms can present like:
- Back pain on one or both sides of the spine
- Leg or foot numbness/tingling
- Pain around the hip or buttock
- Back pain normally is:
- Dull/achy
- Sharp at times
- Tightness in the back is also normal after a back related injury
If you are having back pain that sounds like the above, we can certainly help you with PT!
By Leigh Taylor DPT
