When to See a Physical Therapist for Back Pain | Relief Tips

Back pain is one of the most common medical issues affecting millions of people worldwide. It makes up a very high volume of people at our clinic. It can range from a mild, occasional ache to severe, chronic discomfort that limits daily activities. While many people experience back pain at some point in their lives, it can be challenging to know when it’s time to seek professional help.

One highly effective, non-invasive treatment option is physical therapy. A physical therapist can help you manage and relieve your back pain by addressing the root cause, improving your strength, flexibility, and overall function. In this blog, we’ll explore when you should consider seeing a physical therapist for back pain, how they can help, and what to expect during treatment.

 

1. Persistent or Chronic Back Pain

Back pain that lasts for more than a few weeks or recurs frequently is often a sign that you should see a physical therapist. It is very common to have the occasional bout of low back pain that comes around once every couple of years.In certain occasions, back pain may self-resolve within thirty days. If it does, great! 

While it’s common to experience occasional discomfort that independently dissipates, what is also common, unfortunately, is living with persistent pain that doesn’t go away on its own. At any given time, 10% of people have low back pain. And that is only the reported number. 

Because of this, people accept it as a normal part of reality. The true reality is, however, that ongoing pain indicates an underlying issue, such as muscle imbalances, poor posture,  nerve irritation or joint dysfunction. The good news is that these things CAN be treated! Let me repeat that: They CAN be treated!

A physical therapist can assess your condition, identify the root cause of your pain, and develop a customized treatment plan to help you recover. After very extensive physical examination and testing, we use a combination of techniques, including manual therapy, corrective exercises, and posture education, to address the source of your pain and prevent it from returning.

Common conditions that lare involved with chronic back pain include:

  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Sciatica
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Scoliosis
  • Arthritis

If you’ve been dealing with chronic back pain, physical therapy can offer long-term relief without the need for surgery or medications.

In summary, if you’ve been having ongoing pain for more than 30 days that has not resolved, the chances are that it will not on its own. 30 days is a great marker to know you may need more help.  The earlier you treat, the easier it will be to solve. Do yourself a huge service and do not wait until the problem is excruciating to ask for help. 

The truth is, getting rid of low back pain is complicated! That is why you have health care professionals such as myself who have dedicated their entire doctorate and post-doctorate studies learning how to truly treat this condition. And although you may find some temporary relief from the tricks on Dr. Google, truly addressing recurrent low back pain requires individualized personal attention and technique application. 

 

2. Pain That Radiates Down Your Leg (Sciatica)

If your back pain is accompanied by a shooting or radiating pain that travels down your leg, you may be experiencing sciatica. This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your legs, becomes irritated. Sciatica can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in your lower back, buttocks, legs and feet.

A physical therapist can help alleviate sciatica by using techniques like manual therapy, spinal mobilization, and stretching exercises to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. There are many things we will do which frankly are just too darn complicated to explain on a blog:-) We will also guide you through exercises to strengthen your core and back muscles, which helps prevent future flare-ups.

If you’re experiencing sciatica, seeking physical therapy early on can prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

 

3. Limited Mobility or Stiffness

Back pain is often accompanied by limited mobility or stiffness, making it difficult to bend, twist, or perform daily activities. Whether your mobility is affected by muscle tightness, joint stiffness, or an injury, physical therapy can help restore your range of motion. If you feel like you can’t reach or bend like you used to, this is a sign that you can use more help. The restrictions you have in mobility are likely due to irritation and consequent guarding by the body’s nervous system.

Through a combination of manual therapy and targeted stretching exercises, a physical therapist can help loosen tight muscles and improve joint function. The coolest part is that when we do the right things to reduce irritation on the nerve root, the mobility can return naturally, often times within just MINUTES. We will also work on improving your posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on your back and prevent future issues.

If you find yourself unable to perform basic movements without pain or discomfort, physical therapy can help you regain flexibility and improve your overall function.

 

4. Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

If you’ve recently had surgery on your back, such as a spinal fusion or discectomy, physical therapy is an essential part of your rehabilitation. In my last place of employment (world-famous hospital to not be named for legal purposes:-)), I developed the pre-hab and post-operative protocol for lumbar spine surgery with a team of surgeons. The implementation made a huge difference in short and long-term results, as it is ESSENTIAL to full recovery of health and function. After surgery, your muscles, nerves and joints are deconditioned, and it’s important to work with a physical therapist to regain strength and mobility in a safe and controlled manner.

Physical therapists design individualized post-surgical rehabilitation programs that include:

  • Strengthening exercises to improve muscle function
  • Range-of-motion exercises to restore mobility
  • Education on proper body mechanics to prevent reinjury
  • Scar tissue management to improve healing
  • Nerve exercises to reduce pain and restriction of movement
  • Manual therapy to unlock tension in areas that are difficult to unlock with exercise alone

By following a physical therapy program after surgery, you can speed up your recovery, reduce pain, and return to your normal activities with better outcomes.

 

5. Recurring Injuries or Pain

If you’ve experienced back pain in the past and it keeps returning, it may be due to underlying muscle imbalances, poor posture, or weak core muscles. These issues can put additional stress on your back, leading to frequent injuries or flare-ups.

Physical therapy can help address these root causes by creating a personalized program that focuses on:

  • Strengthening your core and back muscles
  • Improving your posture and alignment
  • Teaching you proper movement patterns to avoid strain
  • Increasing your flexibility and balance

By addressing the underlying issues, physical therapy can help you break the cycle of recurring injuries and long-term back pain.

 

What to Expect During Physical Therapy for Back Pain

If you’re considering seeing a physical therapist for back pain, you may be wondering what to expect during treatment. Here’s a general overview of the process:

  1. Initial Evaluation: We will conduct an extremely thorough evaluation to understand the source of your back pain. We will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical assessment to determine your range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
  2. Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your evaluation, we create a customized treatment plan designed to address your specific condition. This plan may include a combination of manual therapy, corrective exercises, posture education, and other techniques to relieve pain and improve function.
  3. Hands-On Therapy: Physical therapists often use hands-on techniques, such as massage, joint mobilization, and trigger point release, to reduce muscle tension and improve joint mobility.
  4. Exercise Program: You’ll be guided through targeted exercises designed to strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and promote proper body mechanics. Your therapist will also provide exercises for you to do at home to maintain your progress.
  5. Education and Prevention: In addition to treatment, your physical therapist will educate you on how to manage your back pain, improve your posture, and prevent future injuries. This may include lifestyle modifications, ergonomic advice, and exercises to maintain long-term relief.

 

Conclusion

Physical therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive option for managing back pain, whether you’re dealing with a recent injury, chronic discomfort, or recovering from surgery. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, limited mobility, or recurring injuries, it’s time to consult a physical therapist. By addressing the root causes of your pain and helping you build strength and flexibility, physical therapy can help you return to the activities you love—pain-free.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. When should I see a physical therapist for back pain?

You should see a physical therapist if your back pain persists for more than 30 days, if severe pain persists more than a few days, if it limits your mobility, or if the pain is accompanied by radiating symptoms such as numbness or tingling down your leg (sciatica). It’s also a good idea to consult a physical therapist after surgery.

  1. What does a physical therapist do for back pain?

A physical therapist evaluates your back pain to determine the root cause, such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, or joint dysfunction. They create a personalized treatment plan that includes manual therapy, corrective exercises, and education to help you manage pain, improve mobility, and prevent future injuries.

  1. Can physical therapy help with chronic back pain?

Yes, physical therapy is highly effective for treating chronic back pain. By addressing the underlying issues that cause pain, such as poor posture or muscle weakness, physical therapy helps reduce pain and improve overall function. It’s a non-invasive, long-term solution for managing chronic pain.

  1. Is physical therapy necessary after back surgery?

Yes, physical therapy is essential after back surgery to help you regain strength, mobility, and function. A post-surgical rehabilitation program focuses on restoring movement, improving flexibility, and preventing complications. Working with a physical therapist ensures a safe and effective recovery process.

  1. What exercises do physical therapists recommend for back pain?

It is difficult to say what exercises may be right for you without seeing you, as every person is truly different. This is why it is so difficult to stumble upon the truly correct treatment for you while surfing the web. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment, or else everyone would know it and no one would have pain!

  1. How long does it take to recover from back pain with physical therapy?

The length of time it takes to recover depends on the severity of your condition, your body’s response to treatment, and your commitment to following your therapist’s recommendations. Some patients experience significant relief in as little as a day or two, while others may need weeks to see drastic change. You should start to at least see some level of change however within your first few visits.

  1. Can physical therapy prevent future back pain?

Yes, one of the most important goals of physical therapy is to prevent future back pain. By teaching you proper movement patterns, learning about the correct ways to do daily movements, understanding how to self-treat, and strengthening your core and back muscles, physical therapy empowers you to keep yourself at low risk for future injuries and pain.

  1. Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist for back pain?

We allow direct-access at our clinic which means that you do not need a referral. 

Patient Testimonials

At Trem Therapy Solutions, we’re proud to help our patients find relief from back pain and regain their mobility. Here are a few testimonials from individuals who have benefited from our physical therapy services:

John D. – Relief from Chronic Lower Back Pain

“I had been living with chronic lower back pain for years. After trying various treatments with no success, I finally went to Trem Therapy Solutions. The physical therapist evaluated my posture and taught me exercises to strengthen my core and improve my movement patterns. After just a few weeks, my pain had significantly decreased, and I could move without discomfort. I wish I had tried physical therapy sooner!”

Emily P. – Sciatica Recovery

“I was suffering from severe sciatica that caused sharp pain down my leg. Dr. Trem used manual therapy and guided me through exercises to stretch my back and relieve the pressure on my sciatic nerve. I’m so thankful for the care I received—my sciatica is gone, and I feel stronger than ever.”

Mark R. – Post-Surgical Back Rehabilitation

“After my spinal fusion surgery, I was worried I’d never get back to my normal routine. Dr. Trem designed a post-surgery rehab plan that helped me regain strength and flexibility. They were with me every step of the way, and now I’m pain-free and moving better than before surgery. Their personalized care made all the difference.”

Laura H. – Improved Flexibility and Mobility

“Years of poor posture had caused severe stiffness and pain in my upper back. Trem Therapy Solutions helped me correct my posture and improve my flexibility with targeted exercises and hands-on therapy. I’m now able to move freely without the constant discomfort I used to feel. The physical therapists were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive throughout my treatment.”

Ready to Find Relief from Back Pain?

If you’re dealing with chronic or recurring back pain, Trem Therapy Solutions can help. If you’re near the Columbus, Powell, Dublin, or Delaware, Ohio areas; contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how physical therapy can relieve your pain and restore your mobility.

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