Sometimes it takes more than a pain reliever to quell a nasty joint. This is why most people start seeking physical therapy for pain relief. It’s a beneficial solution for people of all ages, formulated for different kinds of discomfort.
What is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a scientific, non-invasive solution that aims to improve patients’ mobility, function, and comfort. They play a role in prevention and rehabilitation, especially if the patient has undergone strenuous activities.
Types of Physical Therapy
Approaches to physical therapy vary according to need, age, and type of injury or illness. Some of these include, but are not limited to, the following.
Orthopedic Physical Therapy
This is among the most common types of physical therapy. People of all ages need to take care of their musculoskeletal system, which is comprised of the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Orthopedic physical therapy deals with issues related to this system.
Geriatric Physical Therapy
This therapy is geared towards people of older age. They may require specialized needs that are suitable for their body. Through geriatric physical therapy, patients help combat diseases such as osteoarthritis.
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Children with congenital disorders, developmental diseases, and other conditions often undergo physical therapy sessions. Since their bodies are different from adults, pediatric treatments may have specialized procedures.
Neurological Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help in mobility problems caused by nervous system disorders. If one is suffering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, and the like, neurological physical therapy can aid the process.
Causes of Chronic Pain
People who suffer due to illness or injury often seek physical therapy for chronic pain. These are some notorious causes of chronic pains:
- Traumatic injuries
- Past surgeries
- Musculoskeletal diseases
- Nervous system damage
- Obesity
- Poor posture
Addressing Chronic Pain with Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often practiced alongside other kinds of treatment. A physical therapist will prescribe personalized care routines and exercises depending on the injury.
Not all kinds of physical therapy will be suited for you. For instance, a therapist will advise physical therapy exercises for shoulder pain, which differ from physical therapy exercises for knee pain.
Types of Pain Where Physical Therapy Can Help
The practices for each pain type is different. For instance, physical therapy for wrist pain have different demands from physical therapy for sciatic nerve pain. Here are some types of physical therapy according to the affected body area.
Physical Therapy for Back Pain
This part of the body is particularly prone to injury. Due to its wide range, there are subtypes of back pain treatment. These include:
- Physical therapy for upper back pain. These deal with posture and other such issues, spanning from the shoulders to the thoracic spinal column.
- Physical therapy for tailbone pain, which is scientifically known as physical therapy for coccyx pain. This refers to the ache at the bottom of your spine.
- Physical therapy for SI joint pain targets the sacroiliac (SI), the joints near your pelvis and tailbone.
Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain
Reasons for shoulder pain can be circumstantial, such as when you’ve carried something that’s way too heavy. Other times, it’s years of habits that need to be corrected, such as poor posture. You can have simultaneous physical therapy for neck or shoulder pain since their areas of coverage are similar.
Physical Therapy for Neck Pain
Neck pain may be caused by muscle pain, illnesses, or poor posture. A patient will be prescribed with physical therapy exercises for neck pain, which are relatively lighter than other strenuous exercises.
Physical Therapy for Rib Pain
Rib pain can be caused by injuries in the chest area, which are common in sports-related contact. Aside from movement exercises, torso pains might require more rest and breathing exercises.
Physical Therapy for Pelvic Pain
Many women of childbearing age report pelvic pain as a lasting condition. However, males can suffer from this as well.
Since the pelvis is a wide area, you might also seek physical therapy for hip pain. Major causes of hip pain are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other similar diseases. Luckily, there are tons of physical therapy exercises for hip pain that you can do even in your room.
Physical Therapy for Knee Pain
Active people often use their lower body, which makes them susceptible to injuries. You might need physical therapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome, which affects your kneecap. Physical therapy exercises for knee pain range from stretching to squats, so you need to prep to sweat more.
Physical Therapy for Heel Pain
Tendonitis, ruptures, and other injuries can cause severe aching and affect overall mobility. Physical therapy can help manage the pain until the heel or ankle area gets better.
Common Questions About Physical Therapy For Chronic Pain
If you’re not sure what to expect at physical therapy for lower back pain (or any other kinds of pain, for that matter), these might answer some of your concerns.
How Long Does Physical Therapy Take to Ease Chronic Pain?
For more minor pains, you can seek treatment for six to eight weeks. But if you suffer from chronic pain, it might take longer months, since it’s a long-term solution. It’s best to consult with your doctor or physical therapist about your specific situation.
What Happens During a Physical Therapy Session for Pain?
Hands-on therapy and exercise often go hand-in-hand in a session. After the diagnosis, your physical therapist will prescribe a program for you. This may include massages, tissue mobilization, and even guided exercises.
Who is Qualified to Perform Physical Therapy for Pain?
You should always seek a certified physical therapist—especially if they’re licensed. These professionals have undergone the necessary training to treat patients without harming them.
Find Quality Physical Therapists For Your Chronic Pain with Coury & Buehler
Need a reliable physical therapist? At Coury & Buehler, we have a highly trusted team of health care professionals who can help you with your needs. Reach out to us—we guarantee you’ll be in good hands.
