Lower back pain seems like a normal part of life for many adults, especially seniors. However, there are treatments that can help reduce and prevent lower back pain.
Treating lower back pain with physical therapy
Physical therapists are health care professionals who are skilled in many treatments that help with lower back pain. Below are some of the common treatments our team uses at Panther Physical Therapy in Allison Park, Pennsylvania:
- Exercising — Weak and stiff muscles in the lower back and abdomen contribute to lower back pain by causing more pressure to build on your spine from your body weight. Exercising can strengthen these muscles to improve support for your body weight and take pressure off the spine.
- Stretching — Stretching helps improve flexibility in the muscles of your back and abdomen. This helps to reduce pressure off the spine and can improve your range of motion.
- Hands-on therapy — Also known as manual therapy, hands-on therapy involves methods in which physical therapists mobilize your soft tissue and joints into positions that help with tension and pain. These treatments are often used to help improve your range of motion that’s affected by back pain. They also help to break down scar tissue caused by an injury or surgery.
- Posture correction — Poor posture can lead to an increase of pressure on your lower back. This is especially a problem if you sit without proper lumbar support or sit for extended periods of time. Physical therapists can help you improve your sitting posture to reduce pressure off the spine. They can also help you tell when it’s time to get up and take a break or stretch.
- Lifestyle guidance — Physical therapists can help you identify areas in your life that contribute to lower back pain. For example, smoking can contribute to lower back pain because it restricts your blood flow that delivers helpful oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and soft tissue. Quitting can help improve your blood flow.Another change you may need to make is including more physical activity in your daily routine. A sedentary lifestyle leads to constant weak and stiff muscles, but some light physical activity, such as going for a walk, can help keep your muscles active and healthy.
Visit Panther Physical Therapy in Allison Park, PA, for lower back pain treatment
Is lower back pain keeping you from enjoying a higher quality of life? Our physical therapists in Allison Park are available to help you. Contact our team today for more information about lower back pain or to schedule an initial appointment.