Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain every year. Chronic pain is more than just an annoyance, it can potentially affect and change a person’s quality of life. Experiencing pain on a regular basis can make it hard to work, enjoy everyday activities, and even get a full night’s sleep. Thankfully, physical therapy can significantly help your chronic pain. Here are just a few ways how!
Treating Chronic Pain Through Physical Therapy
Many doctors prescribe pain medications to patients that complain of chronic pain. However, pain medication shouldn’t be considered a long-term plan for pain management. Some pain medications are highly addictive and don’t treat the source of the pain – just the symptoms. They can also have negative side effects like dizziness or nausea. Instead, methods like physical therapy get to the source of the pain and help stop it for good.
How Physical Therapy Can Help You Manage Your Chronic Pain
Your chronic pain may be caused by muscle or joint issues. Your physical therapist will give you a thorough evaluation at your first appointment to determine if this is the case. Your therapist will develop a customized treatment plan to help manage your pain as soon as a problem is identified. Exercises, stretches, and even massages may be used to help treat the source of your pain.
Increase Flexibility and Mobility
Besides helping you manage your chronic pain, physical therapy could also help increase your flexibility and overall mobility. Increasing mobility can help cut down on muscle stiffness and joint pain. Not only can this help cut down on pain symptoms, but it could also help improve your quality of life.
If you suffer from chronic pain, consider trying physical therapy. Give Activity First Physical Therapy a call today to get started.