According to MedlinePlus, eight in ten people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. If you’re one of them, you know how debilitating it can be. Not only does back pain make it difficult to do everyday activities, but it can also lead to depression and a decreased quality of life. While there are many treatments for back pain, physical therapy is often the best option. Here are five reasons to see a physical therapist for back pain.
1. It’s Non-invasive
Unlike surgery or taking medication for your back pain, physical therapy is completely non-invasive. This means that there are no risks of side effects and no long recovery times. In fact, most people begin to see results from their physical therapy within just a few sessions.
2. It Targets the Root Cause of Your Pain
One of the biggest benefits of physical therapy is that it can target the root cause of your pain rather than simply treating the symptoms. A physical therapist will work with you to determine what is causing your back pain and then create a customized treatment plan that addresses those underlying issues. This may involve strengthening certain muscles, improving your posture, or even addressing mental health factors like stress and anxiety.
3. It’s Effective at Relieving Pain
Another major benefit of physical therapy is that it can effectively relieve pain. Not only does this help to improve mobility and function, but it also reduces the need for taking prescription medications or undergoing surgery. One study found that patients who saw a physical therapist for their back pain had a significantly lower risk of having to undergo surgery than those who did not.
4. It Can Help Prevent Future Injuries
Not only can physical therapy help alleviate your current back pain, but it can also help to prevent future injuries. A physical therapist will work with you to improve your posture and strengthen the muscles around your spine. This can help to reduce your risk of developing back pain in the future.
5. You’ll Learn How to Manage Your Pain
Finally, one of the most important benefits of seeing a physical therapist is that you’ll learn how to manage your pain. A physical therapist will teach you exercises and techniques that you can use to manage your pain on your own. This is an important skill to have because it can help to prevent future injuries and flare-ups.
According to the Professional Therapy Associates, 46% of patients sought help for their backs specifically. This shows just how debilitating back pain can be and why it’s so important to seek help from a physical therapist if you are struggling with this condition. Call us today to schedule a consultation. We can help you find relief from your back pain and improve your quality of life.