Your spine plays a serious role in your body by supporting your head, shoulders, and upper body. It also makes a tunnel for the set of nerves that connect your brain to the rest of your body. Unfortunately, injuries and conditions can arise in the spine resulting in the need for treatment from spine physical therapy near St. James. One treatment method used to resolve multiple spine conditions is spine physical therapy near St. James. At Island Sports Physical Therapy, we can address your spine condition and give it the proper attention.

Herniated Disk

One spinal condition that can be resolved with physical therapy is a herniated disk. Disks act like cushions between each vertebra in your spine to prevent them from scraping each other. If too much stress is put on your back, a disk can tear or break, causing a herniated disk. As a result, your arms or legs can become painful or feel numb. Medication like pain killers or spine physical therapy near St. James can help bring relief to a herniated disk. Our physical therapists will show you positions and exercises designed to minimize pain.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is another condition that can get better with physical therapy treatment. If the cartilage on your vertebrae wears down, the vertebrae start to rub against each other. This results in back pain or stiffness. Women are more susceptible to getting osteoarthritis, which also tends to worsen with time. The condition cannot be reversed; however, symptoms can be eased with medication or physical therapy. Physical therapy can help alleviate pain and increase the range of motion.

Sciatica

One other condition that can be treated with physical therapy is sciatica. Sciatica occurs when pain shoots down into your leg from your lower back. The cause of this can be due to your sciatic nerve receiving pressure from spine problems like a herniated disk or bone spur. Sciatica can be relieved by using hot and cold therapy, stretching, or exercises during spine physical therapy near St. James. 

What to Expect During Physical Therapy

The goal of physical therapy is to decrease discomfort and increase movement. During spine physical therapy near St. James, our specialist will first talk to you about your condition and perform an examination. Our physical therapist may examine your range of motion, strength, functionality, and balance. After reviewing the severity of your condition, you will be told clear instructions on how to go about physical therapy treatments. More than one method of physical therapy can be used. Some of these methods include:

• Exercises and stretches
• Ultrasound therapy
• Electrical stimulation and TENS
• Joint mobilization
• Massage therapy
• Hot and cold therapy

Contact Our Office

Spinal conditions should not be left untreated as they can worsen over time and bring more pain and discomfort. Spinal conditions should be addressed with spine physical therapy near St. James. Our staff at Island Sports Physical Therapy can diagnose and treat various spinal conditions you may be suffering from. Contact our practice if you are in need of physical therapy to bring relief.