Living with chronic pain can feel like a never-ending battle. But what if there was a way to handle this pain better and enjoy life again? That’s where physical therapy for chronic pain comes in. Finding a local physical therapist in Sherman, TX, is a helpful way to make life easier when suffering from chronic pain.
In this blog, we will discuss chronic pain and how physical therapists can help people with it live better lives.
Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is pain that lasts for a long time, sometimes for months or even years. Unlike pain from a sudden injury, which goes away once you heal, chronic pain sticks around for much longer.
Common Causes of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can come from many different things. Some common causes are arthritis (joint pain), nerve damage, spinal problems, and fibromyalgia (a condition that causes widespread pain). Knowing why you have chronic pain is important to find the right treatment.
The Impact of Chronic Pain on Daily Life
Chronic pain can affect all parts of life – making it hard to sleep, work, and keep good relationships with family and friends. Simple daily tasks like walking, cooking, or even getting dressed can become difficult.
The Role of a Physical Therapist
A physical therapist is a healthcare professional trained to help people manage pain and improve their physical function. They design customized exercise programs and provide hands-on treatments to alleviate pain.
Physical therapists use various tools to diagnose pain. They assess your range of motion, strength, and posture. They may also ask about your lifestyle and pain history to identify the pain’s source.
Once your physical therapist understands your chronic pain, they can create a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include exercises, stretches, and other therapies tailored to your specific needs.
Techniques Used in Physical Therapy
Here are techniques that physical therapists use to enhance the quality of life of patients dealing with chronic pain:
Exercises to Improve Mobility
One important part of physical therapy is doing exercises. These aren’t your usual gym workouts; they are designed to help specific parts of your body get stronger and more flexible.
Stretching can make you more flexible, and strengthening exercises build muscles to support your joints and reduce stress. Your physical therapist will show you how to do these exercises correctly to get the most benefit and avoid getting hurt.
Manual Therapy Techniques
Manual therapy means the therapist uses their hands to move your muscles and joints. Techniques like massage, joint mobilization, and myofascial release can help reduce pain and improve how you move.
Your physical therapist might use these methods to break down scar tissue, relax muscles, and improve blood flow to the painful areas.
Pain Management Strategies
Physical therapists also teach patients ways to manage pain. This can include using heat and cold therapies, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound therapy.
These methods can help reduce swelling, improve blood flow, and relieve pain, providing quick and lasting relief.
Posture Correction and Ergonomics
Many ongoing pain problems come from bad posture and how we use our bodies. A physical therapist can look at how you sit, stand, and move and suggest changes.
Simple things, like adjusting your chair height or the position of your computer screen, can greatly reduce pain.
Education and Self-Management
Learning is a key part of physical therapy. Your physical therapist will explain your condition and how to handle it.
You’ll learn to notice what triggers your pain and how to avoid activities that make it worse. This knowledge can help you take control of your health and make smart choices to stay well.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Chronic Pain Patients
Here are some benefits of physical therapy for chronic pain patients:
Reducing Pain and Inflammation
One of the primary goals of physical therapy is to reduce chronic pain and inflammation. Techniques like massage, heat therapy, and ultrasound can help alleviate chronic pain and promote healing.
Improving Mobility and Flexibility
Chronic pain, especially musculoskeletal system-related pain, often leads to stiffness and reduced mobility. Physical therapists use targeted exercises and stretches to improve flexibility and range of motion, making daily activities easier.
Enhancing Strength and Endurance
Weak muscles can exacerbate chronic pain. Physical therapists incorporate strength training exercises to build muscle and improve endurance. This helps support your joints and reduces strain on painful areas.
Physical Therapist in Sherman, TX
At Carrus Health–Rehabilitation Hospital, we offer a range of advanced therapies, including physical therapy, designed to address the unique challenges of chronic pain conditions. From manual therapy techniques to customized exercise programs, our compassionate and skilled physical therapists are here to support you every step of the way.
For more information about our physical therapists, call us today at (903) 870-2600. We look forward to serving you!
