Dr. Moldover: Physical therapy

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy refers to the application of physical modalities such as heat, cold, electricity, water, massage, and exercise. The only modality with lasting value for chronic pain is exercise. The others may be useful initially for an acute condition, or briefly to manage a flare-up during treatment of a chronic condition.

Manual therapy by a trained physical therapist is an important part of the treatment of spinal pain. It is especially helpful for facet joint problems, sacroiliac problems, and correcting imbalances caused by chronic spasm and malalignment.

William's flexion exercises are a traditional approach to low back pain. They include exercises like pelvic tilts, knee-chest exercise, and sit-ups. They are useful for facet joint problems and spinal stances. They may aggravate pain from a herniated disc.

MacKenzie extension exercises are useful for herniated discs. They emphasize exercises in which the lumbar spine is arched backwards. They may aggravate pain from facet problems and spinal stenosis.

Spinal stabilization exercises are exercises in which you are taught to hold your spine in a position of comfort andperform activities around it. They are the key to strengthening your spine and preventing further injury.

All of these exercise should be learned under the supervision of a physician or physical therapist. They must all be continued at home on a regular basis. Physical therapy is not like a course of antibiotics which can be stopped after 10 days.