Is Physical Therapy Right for You?

The vast majority of patients who suffer from back or neck pain are not surgical candidates. This allows them to choose non-surgical alternatives to treat their conditions. Unfortunately, many of these treatments provide only temporary relief. It is not uncommon for patients to have attempted 3-4 different treatment programs without success, leading to frustration and confusion.

Many current treatments (i.e. heat, ultrasound, other modalities) for back or neck pain fail because they are passive in nature and offer only temporary pain relief. They do not strengthen the core muscles to support normal spinal function. They also do not reverse the negative physiological changes that occur with injury and long-term disuse.

Longer-lasting relief from spinal pain can be achieved when the supporting muscles are made stronger through specific, isolated exercise. A healthier, less painful spine is a spine that is stronger and more flexible. These supporting muscles are called the "core": deep abdominal, deep pelvic, and deep low back muscles. The muscles surrounding the neck and midback, also, are considered "core" muscles.