Neck and Back Pain

There are common causes of both back pain and neck pain. Changes in the spine’s anatomy often cause back pain. There may be lumbar disc herniation, lumbar degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. 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. Wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to lumbar degenerative disc disease. It causes low-level back pain. Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear of the facet joints in the spine. Friction can cause a pinched nerve from osteoarthritis. And when the sacroiliac joint has too much or too little motion, it can cause lower back pain.

Muscle strain is a common cause of neck pain. It can be due to sleeping in awkward positions, whiplash or poor posture. Other common causes of neck pain include cervical osteoarthritis, cervical degenerative disc disease and cervical herniated disc. Back pain and neck pain can range from moderate to severe. If you’re experiencing back pain or neck pain, call FYZICAL Franklin today to see how physical therapy can help you live a pain-free life. Get back and neck pain relief with help from our skilled professional staff.

How Physical Therapy Can Deliver Pain Relief for Back Pain and Neck Pain

Physical therapy is the most common treatment for pain relief in the cervical area and lumbar area. As back and neck surgery is very invasive and has questionable success rates, always try physical therapy first. If physical therapy fails then surgery is an option.

The goals and benefits of physical therapy for neck pain and back pain include:

• Improving neck and back 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 in the back and neck area- Passive treatments by a physical therapist will accelerate healing and lessen pain.
• Developing strengthening of the neck and back- With specific physical exercises, you’ll be building up the muscles in the neck and back areas.
• Developing strategies to prevent neck pain and back 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.

The two forms of physical therapy are passive treatments and active treatments. Passive treatments for neck and back pain include electrotherapy, ultrasound, and intermittent traction. These treatments help

reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness. Active physical therapy treatments include appropriate strength, flexibility and conditioning spine exercises. Active exercise often reduces pain and improves functional ability. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy are experts at examining and treating neck and back pain.