Back Pain Specialist

What are the causes of back pain?

Back pain, a leading cause of lost workdays and disability in the United States, can arise from damage to any of the spinal structures or soft tissues.

Muscle and tendon strains and ligament sprains frequently cause back pain. They can arise from acute injuries due to:

• Poor posture
• Unsafe lifting techniques
• Trips and falls
• Auto accidents
• Sports injuries
• Sudden, awkward movements
• Repetitive strain

Other causes of back pain are chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). These often result in pinched nerves that cause issues such as numbness and tingling as well as pain.

Sciatica is a typical example of this. It arises when the large sciatic nerve at the bottom of your spine comes under pressure from a herniated disc or other tissue, causing shooting pain down one leg.

What treatments can help with back pain?

The expert therapists at Precision Rehab Occupational Physical & Hand Therapy treat back pain using a variety of techniques. Your treatment plan might include:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Moist heat
• Cold therapy
• Ultrasound
• Electrical stimulation
• Fluidotherapy
• Whirlpool treatment
• Iontophoresis
• Cold laser
• Paraffin treatment
• Diathermy

Physical therapies are also an invaluable part of your rehabilitation if you need to have spine surgery.

Is back pain preventable?

There’s quite a lot you can do to prevent back pain. Your therapist at Precision Rehab Occupational Physical & Hand Therapy offers advice on how to care for your back, including:

Exercise

Regular physical activity helps to keep your back strong and flexible. Your therapist can show you how to work out, so you build strength in your core and back muscles and avoid putting excess strain on your back.

Posture

Slumping in front of the TV or sitting bent over a keyboard are common causes of back pain. Your therapist can show you how to sit and walk with the correct posture to reduce stress on your spine.

Weight loss

Weight loss might be helpful for patients who are carrying excess pounds. Your therapist can guide you through a safe and sensible diet and fitness program for healthy, sustainable weight loss.

Lifting and carrying

Learning to lift and carry without straining your spine can make a significant difference to your risk of back pain.

For expert treatment of your troublesome back pain, call Precision Rehab Occupational Physical & Hand Therapy or book an appointment online today.