Spine and Disc Pain Relief in Omaha, Nebraska

Chronic back pain is a problem that many people suffer from. This pain can be caused by various things, including injury, disk problems, or arthritis. It is possible you might not know where the issue started.  

If you are one of the millions who deal with this type of pain daily you might be wondering if physical therapy is the proper treatment for you. This blog post will discuss using physical therapy to treat spine and disk pain, common symptoms, types of treatment, and how to get help.  

Disk and spine pain are conditions that can be incredibly painful. The disks in your back act as a cushion for the vertebrae, and when they start to wear down or become injured, it can cause pain. This pain is often felt in the lower back but can radiate to other body parts. 

The causes of spine and disk pain can vary. Sometimes the disks can bulge or herniate, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Other times, the bones in your spine might rub together, leading to a condition called osteoarthritis. Also, an injury such as a car accident or fall can cause chronic back pain.  

Some of the most common causes of spine and disk pain are:   

• Osteoarthritis: This is a condition that causes the cartilage in your joints to break down. It can happen due to age, injury, or overuse.  
• Herniated disk: A herniated disk occurs when the soft tissue in the disk pushes through a crack in the exterior. This can happen due to an injury or lifting something heavy.  
• Bulging disk: A bulging disk is similar to a herniated disk, but the tissue does not push through as far. It can happen due to age or injury.  
• Spinal stenosis: This is a condition that occurs when the spaces in your spine narrow. This narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and can lead to pain.  
• Sciatica nerve pain: Sciatica nerve pain is caused by the sciatic nerve becoming compressed. This compression can happen due to a herniated disk or spinal stenosis.  

The symptoms of spine and disk pain can vary depending on the cause. However, some of the most common symptoms are:   

• Back pain: This is the most common symptom and can be located in any part of the back.  
• Numbness or tingling: This can happen if the nerves are compressed. It is often felt in the legs or feet.  
• Weakness: If the nerves are compressed, it can weaken the muscles.  
• Loss of bladder or bowel control: This is a rare but severe symptom that requires immediate medical attention. 

If you experience any of the symptoms outlined above, it is essential to see a doctor. They will likely ask about your prior medical history and do a physical exam. They might also order tests such as an MRI or CT scan. These tests can help to diagnose the cause of your pain.  

Physical therapy is a treatment that can help to relieve pain, increase mobility, and improve function. It is often recommended for people living with disk and spine pain. There are many different types of physical therapy, but some of the most common ones include:   

• Spine Stabilization: One type of therapy that can help relieve back pain is called spine stabilization. This technique focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine. These exercises can help take pressure off the discs and nerves in your back.  
• Manual Therapy: Manual therapy is physical therapy that involves using the hands to massage the muscles and soft tissue around the spine. Doing so can help to loosen up the muscles and relieve pain.  
• Electrical Stimulation: Another type of physical therapy is electrical stimulation. This technique uses electrical currents to stimulate the nerves in your back. This can help to reduce pain and inflammation.  
• Aquatic Therapy: Aquatic therapy is a physical therapy that uses water as the medium. The water helps support the body and takes the pressure off the joints. This can be helpful for people who have joint pain or arthritis.  
• Exercises: Physical therapy often includes various exercises. These can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the spine and can also help to improve your range of motion. Traction or spinal decompression: 
• Traction or spinal decompression is a type of therapy that uses traction to help stretch the spine. This can help relieve pressure on the discs and nerves.  
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a therapy that uses sound waves to stimulate the muscles and tissues. Doing so can help to reduce pain and inflammation.  

Before beginning physical therapy, it is essential to consult with your doctor. They will help you determine if physical therapy is the proper treatment for you and create a plan that meets your needs.   

Benefits of Physical Therapy

There are several benefits of physical therapy for people who suffer from spine and disk pain. Some of these benefits include:   

• Relief from pain  
• Increased mobility  
• Improved function  
• Reduced inflammation  
• Fewer symptoms   

Physical therapy can help to improve your quality of life and allow you to live without constant pain. It is a safe, effective treatment that can help you get back to your everyday life.   

Physical Therapy in Omaha  

Thankfully, many options are available if you're looking for physical therapy in Omaha and surrounding areas. The therapists at Nebraska Accident and Injury Clinic can help you find relief from your pain. We offer various services, including spine stabilization, manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and exercises.   If you're living with chronic pain caused by spine and disc problems, you can finally get the help you need to live the life you deserve. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and learn how Nebraska Accident and Injury Clinic can help you get back to living your life to the fullest.