Physical Therapy Techniques That Can Help You Alleviate Pain

There are many reasons to visit a physical therapist, and those technicians can treat a wide variety of ailments. However, the most common client is someone that has been injured in an accident or that has extensive, life-altering pain. Since different individuals may respond better to differing therapies, the therapist employs a wide range of techniques to strengthen muscles, increase circulation, or improve range of motion. Here are some of the most frequently used physical therapy techniques to alleviate pain.

Heat Therapy

Cold and heat therapy has long been used on muscle aches and pains, as well as to reduce soft tissue swelling and inflammation. Whether the cold is used to constrict the blood flow or heat is used to increase blood movement, the therapist can use the method best suited to aid in a speedy recovery.

Massage Therapy

The physical therapist is highly trained in manual muscle movement. This can include:

• Mobilization
• Massage
• Manipulation
• Applications

Because of the effectiveness of muscle movement, it is the foundation of most treatment plans.

Electric Therapy

ESTIM is a form of electrical stimulation that applies electricity to a muscle. The resulting muscle contraction can stimulate movement and restore function. The higher the current, the more muscle contraction can be expected. ESTIM is also used in pain management, but only on very low electrical levels.

Light Therapy

Therapists are trained to use lasers on a low wavelength level to aid in healing. The light therapy is still providing new and exciting ways to help the body, but some of the more common uses are:

• Reduce inflammation
• Limit discomfort
• Alleviate muscle fatigue
• Lessen pain

Physical therapists often use laser therapy along with manual manipulation to achieve the best results.

Sound Therapy

One of the most common uses of sound in physical therapy is employing a high-pitched wave to aid in circulation. The sound also provides heat to connective tissues and speeds ligament healing. Ultrasounds are the most common form of sound therapy and have proven beneficial when used with other physical therapy options, as a physical therapist like one from Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic can tell you more about.

Traction Therapy

Traction decompression therapy is used to relieve pressure on the injured back, most specifically the spine. Whether the injury is a result of genetics or an automobile collision, easing the compression can alleviate the pain and allow the suffering individual to strengthen the area. Conditions that traction therapy works on include:

• Pinched nerves
• Compressed discs
• Sciatica
• Degenerative back disease
• Herniated discs

Pain Therapy

If you have pain that hasn’t been resolved, contact a physical therapist today. You deserve to live a life free of pain, and a qualified physical therapist can help you achieve that state using some of the pain-alleviating techniques listed above.