Back Pain

What Causes Back Pain

Back pain is an incredibly common issue that can impact sleep quality, work function, and normal daily activities.  In some patients, the pain may be limited to only a small region of the back, while others experience pain that radiates down the legs as well.  The causes of back pain are varied, but include muscle spasms, herniated disc, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, acute injuries and arthritic changes.  In many cases, physical therapy is the first choice for non-surgical treatment of back pain.

Possible Symptoms of Low Back Pain

  • Pain within the low back, pelvis, hip, and/or leg
  • Stiffness along the spine and/or hips
  • Weakness within the trunk or leg muscles
  • Numbness within the legs (note: numbness in the private region should be assessed by a physician ASAP)
  • Difficulty maintaining certain positions, such as bending forward/backwards or while walking

Find a Location

View All Locations

Common Treatments of Back Pain

Virtual Therapy
In-Office
In-Home
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Ergonomics assessment/education
  • Heat/Cold
  • Lumbar traction
  • McKenzie Method
  • Soft tissue mobilization/joint mobilization
  • Dry needling
  • Therapeutic exercise

Back pain treatment depends on the source of the pain. Your therapist may use soft tissue or joint mobilization, if normal movement is limited by the pain. Posture and ergonomics education can be useful in helping you avoid painful positions that worsen the pain. If the pain or numbness radiates down your legs, specific exercises may be prescribed to help reduce these symptoms. Sports & More therapists can provide the expert evaluation and intervention needed for successful treatment of back pain.

Our Services

How to Prevent Back Pain

In some cases, the source of back pain is accidental and difficult to prevent.  However, those with a history of back pain have an increased risk for a future episode. If you’ve experienced back pain, there are some strategies that can help reduce strain on the back and can be helpful to avoid injury.

  • Employment screenings
  • Ergonomic training
  • Physical activity and improved physical fitness
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Home exercise programs to manage back stiffness and promote muscle control