Is Physical Therapy Making Neck Pain Worse?
Physical therapy is an excellent way to reduce neck pain, improve posture and strengthen the muscles supporting your spine. Additionally, it can help you identify ways to prevent future incidents of neck discomfort so you can keep your body in excellent health.
Physical therapists are qualified to diagnose your condition, treat it, and provide exercises that will strengthen the muscles surrounding your neck and back. Furthermore, they have many techniques they can employ such as massage or traction for comfort.
At your initial appointment with a physical therapist, they will perform an evaluation. This may include discussion about your injury and any habits that have contributed to it; additionally, they will assess how you move your neck, chest, and upper back.
Posture/Observation: Changes in your posture can put undue strain on sore areas and nerves, so a physical therapist will look for these during an evaluation. This could involve testing out simple posture when lying down or more complex tests when standing and walking around.
Your physical therapist (PT) may suggest making changes to your position at home, or they could take you to a chiropractor for relief. If they believe that the position is contributing to your discomfort, they may suggest using a neck roll or special pillow as support for both head and neck.
Massage/mobilization: Soft tissue treatments like massage have been scientifically proven to reduce muscle spasm and inflammation by helping muscles relax, bring in fresh oxygen, and flush out chemical irritants from the area. This allows you to begin moving again with less pain or even no pain at all!
Joint Mobilization: Physical therapists trained in manual therapy techniques administer graded pressures and movements to joints, lubricating them and relieving any stiffness that causes pain.
Strengthening & Stabilization: The next stage in your treatment plan should focus on strengthening the muscles that support your neck. These will enable you to get into secure positions while at work or doing other activities, as well as reduce strain when sleeping or resting.
According to your PT’s instructions, you may be required to perform specific exercises or stretches at home in a particular sequence and frequency. Follow their plan closely so that you can make progress and recover faster.
Exercises are an essential component of recovery from neck pain, but they can be challenging if you’re still feeling the effects or not used to them. Your therapist will guide you when to push yourself or rest, ensuring that each exercise carries minimal risk for further discomfort or damage. With their guidance and assistance, exercising has never been simpler!
A physical therapist can teach you how to safely perform these exercises at home, and they’ll be sure to monitor your progress. Furthermore, they may suggest changing certain work or hobby habits in order to reduce the likelihood of future pain or injuries.