Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that can restrict mobility and affect daily life. According to the CDC, approximately 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, with 17 million experiencing significant limitations in activity due to pain. In addition to impacting physical activity and work, chronic pain has been associated with depression, Alzheimer's disease, and substance abuse.
Addressing chronic pain is multifaceted, and physical therapy should be considered as a key component of treatment. Physical therapy can offer relief comparable to medication but without the risk of side effects.
Here's a breakdown of how PT tackles pain and its effectiveness:
Identify the Root Cause: PT goes a step further than medication that masks pain. Therapists assess your posture, muscle strength, flexibility, and joint mechanics to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.
Address the Underlying Issues: Based on the evaluation, Physical Therapists at Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin focus on strengthening weak muscles that support your joints, improving flexibility for a better range of motion, and correcting any imbalances or postural problems that might contribute to pain.
Use A Multi-Faceted Approach: Our treatment plan will be customized based on the evaluation. In addition to therapeutic exercise, other techniques, and tools we might use based on your evaluation include:
- Manual Therapy: Soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, and trigger point therapy to address muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate pain.
- Modalities: Techniques like ultrasound, heat therapy, or electrical stimulation can reduce inflammation, promote healing, and manage pain.
Educate and Empower Patients: At OSA, we equip you with the knowledge and tools to manage your pain independently. This might include learning a new exercise routine, how to modify activities, or how to modify your daily schedule when you're feeling better (or worse) than normal.
It's also becoming increasingly likely that you'll learn how pain works. Research shows that combining pain education with physical therapy is an effective treatment.
If you're struggling with chronic pain, call OSA Physical Therapy. They might have the key that will unlock a pain-free life.
We are here for your convenience to minimize your pain and regain your activities of daily living.