Physical therapy can be very helpful in treating neck or back pain. The goal of physical therapy is to alleviate pain, increase function and strength, and help avoid future recurrence.

There are two categories of physical therapy: passive and active. Passive therapy involves using different modalities (therapeutic methods) during the acute phase. These modalities are considered passive because they are being performed on the patient. There are a variety of passive modalities that can be utilized. Heat or ice packs help reduce muscle spasms and inflammation. Ice is most effective within the first 48 hours of an injury. Ice restricts blood circulation to the injured site to reduce inflammation.

 
After the first 48 hours, heat is used to increase blood circulation to the injured site, promoting healing. Ultrasound may also be used to deliver heat deep into the muscle tissue. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a method used to reduce pain. The TENS unit employs electrical stimulation to override the pain signals that are being sent to the brain. Therapeutic massage is helpful in stimulating blood flow and reducing muscle tension. This should only be performed by someone professionally trained in massage therapy. Incorrect massage can actually make the condition worse.

Passive modalities prepare patients to move on to the active phase of physical therapy. Exercise allows the patient to regain muscle flexibility and strength. At this point, the patient will be doing the work, not the physical therapist. A stretching program is initiated to regain flexibility and mobility in the spine’s muscles, ligaments and tendons. Strengthening exercises are useful to stabilize the spine and help prevent future episodes.

Physical therapy also encompasses learning proper body mechanics, so daily activities can be performed without putting unnecessary stress on the spine. Proper techniques for things such as sitting, standing and lifting are addressed.

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