Back pain is a common complaint. It can be mild to severe, acute or ongoing. When you have back pain that doesn't go away with rest, you need to see a doctor. Pain medication may be offered, but strong pain medications can lead to physical dependence and addiction. In many cases, physical therapy, like that offered by Hands-On Physical Therapy, is the most appropriate course of treatment. The McKenzie method of physical therapy is a specific type of treatment that shows a lot of promise in treating back injuries and pain. When you choose a McKenzie method provider, here's what you will get:

1. Diagnosis

The McKenzie method is a type of physical therapy that is patient-focused. Before you're referred to a physical therapist, your primary care physician will examine you to rule out injury. At your first physical therapy appointment, your McKenzie physical therapist will conduct their own examination. The examination used for this method of therapy is different than other exams. Instead of relying on imaging technology, your therapist will carefully observe you while you perform a series of repetitive movements. They will seek to discover the cause of your pain by figuring out which motions trigger it. This portion of your initial exam is called an assessment.

2. Flexibility Training

After your physical therapist has assessed you, they will craft a series of interventions to relieve your pain. The exercises used in the McKenzie method are different than those used in other forms of physical therapy because they're specifically prescribed to treat the cause of your problem. People with tight muscles due to injury or scarring will need to restore flexibility to reduce their pain. Your physical therapist will prescribe exercises that will increase your range of motion. They may manually manipulate the affected joints and muscles, in addition to teaching you exercises that can be used at home.

3. Posture Counseling

Poor posture is a leading cause of back pain. When you slouch, your spine compresses, and this pressure can pinch nerves and cause pain. By encouraging good posture, your McKenzie physical therapist can relieve your suffering. You will be coached in body awareness, which will allow you to notice when you're slouching. Your physical therapist may have you sit in a chair and practice good posture. Many people don't know what correct posture looks or feels like until they have it modeled for them. A neutral head position, relaxed shoulders, and a straight spine are all part of good posture.