When back pain strikes, it can last for months — even years — without the right care. At Praxis Physical Therapy in Vernon Hills, Illinois, the team of orthopedic physical therapy specialists provides state-of-the-art equipment to relieve back pain. Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles in the back, relieve tension from the spine, and treat joint pain. To learn more about back pain, call Praxis Physical Therapy or schedule an appointment online today.
Back pain is one of the most common reasons adults miss work or seek disability assistance. The back plays a critical role in your body’s strength, movement, and stabilization. Any damage to the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or nerves in the back can cause pain.
Many sports injuries, accidents, and degenerative conditions can cause back pain, such as:
A soft tissue strain is the most common cause of back pain. Strains can happen suddenly or develop gradually due to overuse and repetitive stress. Soft tissue strains are especially common in individuals who lift heavy objects at work, increase their exercise levels too quickly, or start a new type of physical activity without proper conditioning.
The spine contains 33 vertebrae that sit in between small discs. These discs act as shock absorbers and improve flexibility in the spine. Each disc consists of a solid outer casing with a softer center. Small cracks in the outer shell may cause the center material to push through, irritating surrounding nerves.
Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that cause joint inflammation. The most common type, osteoarthritis, is a “wear-and-tear” disorder that affects the protective cartilage surrounding your joints. As the cartilage deteriorates, friction between connecting bones develop. Over time, osteoarthritis can cause pain and diminished mobility.
The sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the back of the legs, can cause pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling when compressed. A herniated disc or narrowed spine are the most common causes of sciatic nerve pain.
Diagnosing back pain typically requires a full physical exam. A review of your medical history may also help diagnose back pain. In many cases, determining the cause of back pain also requires imaging scans, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or a computed tomography (CT) scan.
Along with rest, ice, and heat therapy, physical therapy is an essential back pain treatment. By rebuilding the strength and flexibility in your back, your physical therapist at Praxis Physical Therapy can help reduce your pain and improve your mobility. Some of the most effective machines the team offers to treat your pain include:
The state-of-the-art facility also has an open space for functional drills (for runners, soccer players, volleyball players, etc.). Special equipment can also help support people recovering from football, baseball, lacrosse, volleyball, golf, gymnastics, cheerleading, and dance injuries.
To learn more about back pain, call Praxis Physical Therapy or schedule an appointment online today.
