Low back pain is the most common type of pain reported in the United States, with roughly 25% of U.S. adults reporting an episode of low back pain in the last three months. Oftentimes, the first step someone takes after developing low back pain is to see their primary care physician. This often results in an x-ray to rule out anything serious, such as a fracture or tumor, prescription medication to help manage pain, recommendation to rest, and possibly a referral to a physical therapist. While medication can be helpful for some, it primarily masks the symptoms and does 
not directly address the injury. This is where a physical therapist (PT) steps in.
PTs have extensive training and education on how to evaluate and diagnose neuromusculoskeletal conditions of the spine and develop a treatment plan specific to you using therapeutic exercise, manual techniques, and various modalities, such as functional dry needling or laser therapy, to improve pain and function. We also empower you to better understand your condition, how to self-manage, and help prevent future recurrence. Additionally, if diagnostic imaging, such as a MRI, is indicated or if physical therapy is not appropriate, we help guide you through those next steps. Not only does this help you start addressing the problem faster, but can also save you money in the long run by limiting expenses on unnecessary medication and imaging.
Why not cut out the additional steps and choose PT first when it comes to low back pain? After all, movement is medicine – there is a dosage, frequency, and duration. So next time you have low back pain, give LifeMotion a call. We’d love to team up with you to develop a plan to reduce your pain and keep your life in motion!
