Back pain and neck pain treatment in Portage, MI

In terms of how disruptive they can be to your functioning and quality of life, back pain and neck pain can be two of the worst forms of pain to deal with. Millions of people have to deal with back or neck pain at some time or another and there can be an extremely wide range of causes, from a minor muscle strain to age-related conditions such as arthritis or degenerative disc disease.

While less-serious cases of back pain and neck pain can be treated with at-home remedies, including rest, gentle stretches and cold compression therapy, sometimes pain persists. Severe pain that does not improve in a few days to a week requires the attention of a qualified medical professional.

At Armor Physical Therapy, we value patient education as a fundamental step in the treatment process. By having a better understanding of the therapeutic options available for pain relief, we hope you can feel more empowered as you seek back pain and neck pain treatment. To learn more about us, including our clinic located right in Portage, Michigan, get in touch with our team today.

Diagnosing and treating back pain and neck pain

The back and neck are such common places for pain to develop because of the immense pressure these two regions withstand, combined with their flexibility. This increased wear and tear on the muscles, bones, joints and other soft tissue means an increased risk of injuries and conditions that cause pain.

To diagnose the source of pain, a doctor or other qualified medical professional will perform a physical evaluation, review the patient’s medical history and order diagnostic testing, such as an X-ray. Upon diagnosis, treatment will usually begin with a course of conservative treatment options, including the following:

• Periods of rest
• Light exercise and gentle stretches
• Alternating hot and cold compresses
• Therapeutic massage
• Lifestyle changes such as posture improvement
• Physical therapy

Because of its effectiveness in promoting pain relief, as well as longer-term benefits for spinal stability and range of motion, physical therapy is often a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Physical therapy in Portage

A qualified physical therapist from Armor Physical Therapy can help you isolate postural and movement issues that can be large contributors to back pain and neck pain. He or she can then help you perform both in-office and at-home exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and relieve pressure on the spine. We also offer treatments such as electrical stimulation and manual therapy that can be an effective part of your care plan.

We’d love to help you get back to your life—and we have an experienced and caring staff that can accomplish this. Contact us and schedule your initial appointment at our Portage clinic today.