Back Pain Slowing You Down? Physical Therapy Can Help!

Here’s a fact about back pain that may bring you some comfort: it’s one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints in the world. Around 80% of people will have back pain at least once. So, if you’re suffering now, you probably aren’t the only one!

Of course, that thought does little to help if your back pain keeps you from performing day-to-day activities — as it often does. Back pain is often accompanied by mobility restrictions that make walking, rising from sitting, or bending over difficult. And if left untreated, it can sometimes lead to long-term pain and dysfunction.

At Peak Physical Therapy & Sports Performance, we know how debilitating back pain can be. Our team of dedicated physical therapists will help you understand the cause or causes of your back pain and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that will let you get back to the activities you love to do.

Call our clinic today at 781.992.2769 to set up your initial consultation!

Schedule An Appointment

What Causes Back Pain?

One of the reasons that back pain is so common is that it’s associated with several different injuries, underlying conditions, or lifestyle factors. That said, most back pain is non-specific, meaning it’s not caused by a specific disease or specific structural problem, but caused by mechanical issues. Mechanical issues are difficult to pinpoint and may include multiple tissues in and around the spinal joints. 

The first step in treating your back pain is understanding what’s contributing to it. Our therapists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to help us learn as much as possible about your experience with back pain, including screening for any mobility limitations or weakness you’re struggling with. 

Here are some of the more common sources of back pain that we see at our clinic:

  • Strains and Sprains: A strain occurs when you injure the muscles in your back. A sprain occurs when you injure the ligaments that link your spinal vertebrae. Both can cause pain and limited mobility, and they often result from lifting with improper form (such as twisting while lifting) or attempting to lift something too heavy.
  • Herniated Discs: Soft, flexible discs separate and cushion your spinal vertebrae. If one of those discs herniates — that is protrudes out — and irritates a nearby nerve, it can lead to intense pain, feeling “stuck” in a stooped over position, and often pain down the leg known as sciatica.
  • Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the world, occurring when the cartilage and bone tissue in a joint degenerate and become inflamed. While we often associate it with the hips, knees, or hands, it can occur in the spine, too. Spinal osteoarthritis is sometimes called spondylosis.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Several factors can contribute to lower back pain, including improper posture, prolonged sitting, or weakness in the muscles that wrap and support your spine (your core muscles).

Why Physical Therapy Is Your Back Pain Solution

While back pain often resolves on its own within 1-3 months, physical therapy is an excellent choice for people with particularly intense pain or extremely restrictive mobility. It’s also useful for people with chronic back pain — defined as pain that lingers past that three-month mark.

We customize all our back pain treatment plans according to your specific needs: the location and severity of your back pain, any mobility restrictions, your ability level, and overall goals. We’ll work to address the underlying issues causing your pain rather than simply masking the symptoms.

How will we do this? Through a blend of the following techniques:

  • Manual therapy helps manage pain, promote blood circulation, and improve mobility.
  • A personalized therapeutic exercise plan improves the strength, flexibility, and endurance of your back and core muscles. Muscle weakness significantly contributes to lower back pain, so exercise is a must.
  • Specialized training, such as proper techniques and activities that simulate functional movements you’ll need to perform (i.e., squats, lunges, lifting, etc.).
  • Prevention strategies help reduce future back pain incidents. These strategies might include postural corrections or suggestions for at-home exercises, such as a walking program or regular strength and mobility practice.

Get Moving Again with Physical Therapy!

Back pain is more than just pain. It can severely restrict your mobility, leading to less exercise and movement, further contributing to pain and dysfunction. The Peak Physical Therapy & Sports Performance team is here to help you break that cycle and find relief from back pain for good. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Schedule An Appointment

Maximizing Summer Fitness: Tips from Our Team

Getting active during the summer can be both fun and challenging, but by following our physical therapist’s tips, you can make the most of this season. 

  • Get an Assessment: Consider a comprehensive assessment by one of our skilled therapists to identify any underlying issues or areas of concern. This will help you tailor an exercise plan that suits your specific needs while minimizing the risk of injuries.
  • Warm-up and Cool Down: Remember to do proper warm-ups and cool-downs for every activity. One of our Peak Physical Therapy & Sports Performance experts can guide you through dynamic stretching routines that prepare your muscles for exercise and help prevent strains. 
  • Stay Hydrated: Hydration is essential for your health and well-being, and your therapist can recommend simple strategies to ensure you get enough fluids to keep you energized and prevent heat-related issues.
  • Trust Your Body: Listen to your body, never ignore or push through pain. If you experience pain or discomfort, consult your physical therapist promptly to address any potential concerns. 

With these expert tips, you can enjoy an active and injury-free summer!

Schedule an Appointment

Recipe of the Month: Rosemary Citrus One Pan Baked Salmon

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 small orange (2 Tablespoons juice of orange plus thinly sliced orange slices)
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon orange zest (grated orange peel from orange)
  • 2 Tablespoons fresh rosemary, plus extra to garnish (1 tsp dried rosemary may be substituted)
  • 2 –3 teaspoons honey
  • 10–12 ounces sockeye salmon (whole fillet or three 4 ounces fillets)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional – thinly sliced orange or lemon
  • Optional- 2 cups chopped/sliced veggies of choice (i.e broccoli, asparagus, green beans, etc.)
  • Additional seasoning of choice or salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, orange zest, 2 tablespoons rosemary, and optional honey. Set the mixture aside.
  2. Grease or oil a large baking dish. Place the salmon in the baking dish, skin side down. Season the salmon with a pinch of salt.
  3. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. Brush the orange rosemary on top of the salmon, and place the salmon in the fridge to marinate for 5-10 minutes while the oven preheats.
  5. After 5-10 minutes, add thin orange slices on top of the salmon (optional), and toss veggies of choice with the reserved marinade or 2 teaspoons of olive oil, lemon juice, or seasoning of choice.
  6. Place the tossed veggies (if using) around the salmon in the pan.
  7. Place the baking dish in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is no longer opaque in the middle and the vegetables are cooked through.
  8. Let the salmon rest for 3 minutes before serving.
  9. Add additional salt and pepper to taste.
Schedule an Appointment