Back and Spine
​
At any given moment, 25% of Americans are experiencing neck or back pain. Although common, back pain can be scary, and its debilitating effects play havoc on people's lives.
Because of the pain people feel, individuals with low back pain often think they need strong medications, injections, MRIs, X-Rays, or even surgery to treat their pain. But the reality is that almost all back pain can be treated without imaging, medication, and surgery. Research shows that the most effective treatment for back pain is physical therapy.
​
Treating Your Back Pain at Home
Experiencing back pain? Research shows that the best treatment involves movement. Bed rest can slow recovery and be detrimental to long term results. Start with the Top 3 Exercises for Low Back Relief below. If you don't see any changes or your pain worsens, call us at 401.726.7100 to schedule an evaluation with a physical therapist.
For more information download our Low Back Pain information sheet
​
What Will Physical Therapy Treatment Look Like For My Back Pain?
After your physical therapist evaluates you and develops an individualized treatment plan, treatment can include a combination of the following:
-
Exercises/Education to restore motion, strength, and function
-
Manual Therapy: joint and soft tissue mobilization and manipulation
-
Trigger Point Dry Needling
​
​
Back/Spine Diagnoses That Physical Therapy Can Treat
-
Acute or chronic strains
-
Muscle Spasms
-
Sciatica
-
Stenosis
-
Degeneration
-
Prolapsed and herniated intervertebral discs
-
Sacroiliac joint pain
-
Piriformis syndrome
-
Back pain associated with pregnancy
-
Repetitive strain injuries
-
Post-surgical recovery
​
Top 3 Exercises for Low Back Pain Relief
Walking: Short walks during the day, even for 5 minutes at a time will restore mobility, decrease pain, and promote healing. Gradually increase the time spent walking as pain resolves.
Cat-Camel: Round your lower back as much as you can toward the ceiling, then arch your back so that your stomach comes toward the floor. Perform slowly and stay within a pain-free range. Repeat 10 times and end with a low back stretch.
The Press Up: Place your hands on the floor, with your wrist resting under your shoulders. Push up while keeping your hips glued to the floor. Hold for a few seconds and release your arms and return to the floor. Repeat 10 times. Stay in a pain-free range!
When should I see a Physical Therapist?
If you're experiencing back pain and it isn't getting better, your symptoms worsen or performing at-home exercises and stretches don't help, it's time to see a physical therapist. Call Performance Physical Therapy at 401-726-7100 or request an appointment. New patients can even set up a same-day appointment.