If you are faced with spinal injury or pain, normal activities can be nearly impossible to participate in. A physical therapist can help. A physical therapist (PT) can find the source of pain, rehabilitate injury, and prevent future pain and injury from occurring. Physical therapy is non-invasive, can replace medication, and prevent costly and dangerous surgery.

First, a physical therapist will identify the source of your pain or injury. Then he or she will develop a comprehensive plan of care for your spine. Depending on your level of function, it will include exercise, stretching, and other manual modalities performed in the clinic. Electrical stimulation (e-stim) is commonly used to stop the pain signals dead in their tracks and reduce pain and improve circulation. He or she can also perform massage techniques and manual therapy to stretch and lengthen the spine relieving compression.

Self-care is crucial for the health of your spine. Flexibility, strength, endurance, and balance will keep your spine in tip-top shape to avoid injury. Light exercising and stretching at home should be done every day—or as outlined by your PT. He or she will prescribe specific exercises for your spinal conditions to ensure you are safely exercising.