When to see a physical therapist for lower back pain treatment

Lower back pain can be a normal part of life that occurs after a lot of physical activity or from sitting too long. You’re probably familiar with this kind of back pain and know that you don’t need to go to the doctor every time it happens. However, you may be wondering when it is the right to seek treatment for lower back pain.

Signs you should see a physical therapist for back pain treatment

Certain causes of lower back pain do not go away after rest or home treatments. To treat these conditions, you may need to visit a physical therapist.

Signs you may need to see a physical therapist to treat lower back pain include:

• Prolonged pain in the lower back
• Swelling and redness in the back
• Weakness and numbness in the legs
• Pain that spreads from the lower back throughout one or both of your legs
• Uncontrollable weight loss

You may need emergency medical care if:

• Your back pain occurs as a result of an automobile accident or high-impact injury
• A fever develops when you have back pain
• Your back pain causes loss of bowel or bladder control

Physical therapy treatments for lower back pain

Physical therapists have different methods for reducing lower back pain and improving the range of mobility in your back. The methods used in your treatment will depend on your condition and other factors like medical history and age.

One of the main ways physical therapists treat back pain is with therapeutic exercise. Physical therapists can guide you through stretches and exercises to help build the strength and flexibility of the muscles in your back and core. This can reduce back pain and improve structural support for your upper body, which may prevent future back pain.

Physical therapists may also use other methods in your treatment for lower back pain, including:

• Manual therapy
• Massage
• Electrical stimulation

Visit SSOR for physical therapy services

If you have lower back pain that doesn’t go away or is making your daily life more difficult, you may benefit from physical therapy. Our team at SSOR can examine your back and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you live with less pain and more range of motion. Contact us today to learn more about lower back pain treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.