Back
Back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor posture, injury, overuse, and underlying medical conditions. Symptoms of low back pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain and can be accompanied by stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty moving.
There are several treatment options for low back pain, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Physical therapy is one of the most beneficial treatments, as it can help strengthen the muscles in the back and improve flexibility and range of motion. This can help you avoid using opioids and needing surgery.
At Unified Rehabilitation we believe it is important to address any underlying causes of low back pain such as improper ergonomics, poor posture, muscle imbalances, obesity, inflammation and smoking.
Prevention is also crucial. Regular exercise and stretching can help maintain strong, flexible muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Staying active is also important, as a sedentary lifestyle can lead to stiffness and weakness in the back muscles.
SI Joint
Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment option for individuals experiencing pain in the sacroiliac (SI) joint. The SI joint is located in the lower back, where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) connects to the pelvis. Pain in this area can be caused by a variety of conditions, including injury, inflammation, or arthritis.
At Unified Rehabilitation our excerpt physical therapists can help alleviate SI joint pain by:
Improving flexibility and range of motion: Physical therapy exercises can help loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility in the hips and lower back, reducing stress on the SI joint.
Strengthening the core and surrounding muscles: Strengthening the muscles that support the SI joint, such as the glutes and abdominal muscles, can help reduce pain and improve stability.
Reducing inflammation: Physical therapy techniques such as ultrasound, dry needling and hot/cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the SI joint, reducing pain.
Improving posture: Poor posture can put extra stress on the SI joint, so physical therapy can teach you how to stand, sit, and move in ways that can help reduce pain.
Providing pain relief: Physical therapy can provide pain relief through modalities like electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and dry needling.
Teaching self-care: Physical therapists can teach patients self-care techniques such as stretching and exercise that can help reduce pain and prevent recurrence.
If you are experiencing back pain or SI joint dysfunction, it is important to have an evaluation by one of our physical therapists for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, low back pain can be effectively managed, eliminated and prevented. If you're looking for a solution to your low back pain, schedule an appointment at Unified Rehabilitation to see our team and get relief!