Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain

Chronic pain due to different illnesses and functional disabilities can be treated effectively if the treatment is specifically planned and provided without time delay. Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for patients suffering from chronic pain. Patients can take advantage of passive as well as active physical therapy for chronic pain. Therapeutic and personalized physical therapy treatments help to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility and range of motion. Also, physical therapy aims to heal injuries/fractures, prevent further breakdown and restore bodily functions. Moreover, with physical therapy, proper rehabilitation is possible for patients suffering from pain.

In the first stage of consultation with a physical therapist, the patient is thoroughly examined to assess the health conditions. Then, physical therapy programs are created to obtain the maximum physical improvement.

Active physical therapies are recommended in combination with passive therapies for the best results. Physical therapy services are available for chronic pain due to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, severe headaches, spondylitis, fibromyalgia, lower back pain and chronic pain related to the tissues, nerves, muscles and bones.

Some physical therapy treatments that lessen pain are:

• Massage – This method helps to reduce muscle spasm and inflammation. The technique also releases the tension of ligaments, tendons and muscles to improve the flexibility and mobility.
• Heat/cold therapies – Heat therapy is widely recommended to increase blood circulation in the targeted area thereby promoting quick healing. Cold therapy also helps to reduce muscle spasms, pain and inflammation.
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation – Low voltage electric current is passed through the affected area to relax muscle contractions and increase blood circulation.
• Ultrasound – Ultrasound is a helpful treatment to reduce swelling, stiffness, pain and cramping of muscles and other soft tissues.

In order to speed up the recovery process, physical therapists also schedule various active physical therapy exercises. Common physical therapy exercises are categorized as stretching, strengthening, conditioning and low impact aerobic exercises. These exercises can improve the strength, stability, flexibility and mobility of the body to a great extent thereby enabling easy joint movements without pain.

Consistent physical therapy treatment and exercise can treat lingering pain. These procedures also assure physical mobility that will help patients lead a self-reliant community living. Other benefits of physical therapy include:

• Strengthening of the musculoskeletal system
• Stability of body movements
• Flexibility of joints and muscles
• Diminishes soreness, stiffness and inflammation of muscles
• Encourages the natural healing and immunity power of body

Trained and professionally experienced physical therapists can ensure you good health and body stability. Therefore, search for a specialized pain management center providing personalized physical therapy treatment and care.