Understanding the Common Cause of Back Pain and How Physical Therapy Can Help

A person leaning over with their hand on their back over a red spot in El Paso.As more and more people experience back pain, it’s important to identify the common causes that exacerbate the issue. Doing so allows for effective management and recovery. Physical therapy focuses on a combination of back strengthening and pain relief that can help alleviate common symptoms. 

P3 Physical Therapy in El Paso has worked with back pain patients for years. We offer a wide range of treatment options to find the right solution for you. Contact us online or call (915) 444-5200 to learn more.

Muscle Strain and Sprains

A common cause of back pain is muscle strain or pain resulting from sudden movements, lifting heavy objects incorrectly, or poor posture. A physical therapist can help aid individuals with in-depth back pain treatment in El Paso, including proper back pain education and manual therapy techniques to help alleviate pain.

Herniated Discs

Herniated discs happen when the gel-like center of a spinal disc leaks out. In turn, this puts additional pressure on nearby nerves. It is often the result of using your back muscles to lift heavy objects or awkwardly twisting or turning. Physical therapy back pain treatment in El Paso can help incorporate exercises that reduce pressure on the affected area, improve spinal alignment, and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

Sciatica

Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatica nerve, often caused by compression or irritation. Physical therapy back pain treatment addresses muscle imbalances through corrective exercises to improve posture. Similarly, a physical therapist can incorporate sketches that lessen pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Spinal Stenosis

When the spinal canal narrows, extra pressure is put on the spinal cord and nerves, causing spinal stenosis. It is most common in the lower back and can cause pain or cramping in your legs when you stand or walk for long periods. With the help of a physical therapist, they can offer gentle movements like stretches or range-of-motion experiences to relieve joint pain. Similarly, they may also recommend manual therapy and postural education to improve the mobility of stiff joints.

Poor Posture

Modern lifestyles often leave us sitting for extended periods, contributing to poor posture and back pain. Physical therapy educates individuals on proper body mechanics and incorporates exercises to strengthen core muscles.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that leads to back pain and discomfort. A physical therapist may perform a postural assessment to examine the spine’s range of motion and flexibility before recommending strength exercises and manual therapy. In many cases, people with scoliosis wear a brace to prevent further curvature of their scoliosis.

Injury Prevention and Maintenance

Physical therapy is not only beneficial for treating back pain but also a proactive approach to preventing future injuries. Therapists work with their patients to develop tailored exercise routines that focus on maintaining a strong, flexible, and balanced musculoskeletal system.

Back Pain Treatment in El Paso

P3 Physical Therapy offers manual therapy, dry needling, massages, and more to help you find relief from back pain. Call (915) 444-5200 to schedule an appointment today!