Don't Ignore That Pain

Musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain, shoulder pain and other common strains and sprains afflict most of us at different times. Often, these seem like minimal injuries and we nurse them with rest, ice and perhaps an anti-inflammatory medication.

While self-treatment may work some of the time, injuries such as these can lay the groundwork for repetitive problems, chronic muscle loss or more significant back problems. 

When you are injured, you tend to protect the injured area by not using it. This helps you heal—but only temporarily. By favoring an injured area, you loose strength and flexibility in those muscles. That leads to further problems—not just at the initial injury site, but in the other areas of your body that end up carrying the extra load.

Musculoskeletal injuries are often best treated with physical therapy.

Physical therapists are trained in the use of hands-on techniques such as mobilization and manipulation. At Prevea Health, we also use tools such as ultrasound, traction and other pain relieving options. Most importantly, physical therapists are trained to prescribe exercise programs that reduce pain and rebuild strength.

Tips for successful physical therapy:

• Do all the prescribed exercises for as long as recommended

• Do ONLY the exercises prescribed

• Seek help early. Left untreated, certain injuries can cause permanent damage to joints and muscles

• Visit your physical therapist each time you are injured. Even if you sprained your ankle three years ago, the same exercises may not be right for you now

Remember, physical therapy treatments do not come in a one size fits all package.

While one group of exercises or treatment methods work well for one person, they may not work for another person with a similar injury. Correct evaluation of the injured tissues and movement dysfunctions is a large part of the process and is a main part of the physical therapy intervention.

For more information, call Prevea Health's Physical Therapy department at (920) 496-4750.