How to Determine If Physical Therapy Is Right for You When Experiencing Back Pain (Compared to Other Medical Professionals)
Back pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and lifestyles. When it strikes, many are unsure about whether they should seek physical therapy or visit another medical professional, such as a chiropractor, orthopedic specialist, or primary care physician. So, how do you know if physical therapy is the right choice for your back pain? Here are a few key considerations to help you decide when PT is the best option and how it compares to other medical approaches.
- Do You Have a Musculoskeletal Issue?
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for back pain related to musculoskeletal issues, such as muscle strain, poor posture, or herniated discs. PT focuses on improving mobility, strength, and flexibility, targeting the root causes of pain. If your back pain is due to:
- Muscle tightness or weakness,
- Poor posture or ergonomics,
- Injuries related to movement or physical activity,
Then, physical therapy is likely the best option to address these underlying issues. PT works to restore proper movement, correct imbalances, and teach you exercises and habits that prevent future episodes of pain.
When to consider other medical professionals:
- Orthopedic Specialist: If you suspect your back pain stems from structural issues, such as a severe spinal deformity, fractures, or chronic conditions like scoliosis, an orthopedic specialist may be required to provide surgical options or advanced imaging.
- Chiropractor: If your pain is related to spinal alignment issues, chiropractors may offer spinal adjustments to relieve pressure. However, physical therapists can also address alignment problems through posture correction and strength training without the need for adjustments.
- Do You Want a Non-Invasive, Active Treatment Plan?
One of the key benefits of physical therapy is its non-invasive nature. Rather than relying on medication, injections, or surgery, physical therapists use active techniques to treat your back pain. These include:
- Manual therapy to relieve pain and improve mobility,
- Targeted exercises to strengthen core muscles and support the spine,
- Postural education and ergonomic adjustments to prevent further strain.
Physical therapy empowers you to take control of your recovery through exercise, posture correction, and lifestyle changes, helping you maintain long-term back health without invasive procedures.
When to consider other medical professionals:
- Primary Care Physician: If you are unsure of the cause of your back pain, or if you need medication for acute pain relief, it’s helpful to start with your primary care physician. They can rule out more serious conditions and refer you to the right specialist, including a physical therapist.
- Pain Management Specialist: If your back pain is chronic and debilitating, pain management specialists may offer injections or other pain relief techniques. However, for many patients, physical therapy offers longer-lasting relief by addressing the underlying cause of the pain, not just the symptoms.
- Do You Want to Prevent Future Pain?
Physical therapy not only helps with immediate pain relief but also focuses on long-term solutions. Through strengthening exercises, posture correction, and patient education, physical therapy reduces the chances of recurring back pain. If you’re looking for a treatment plan that helps you:
- Strengthen your core and back muscles,
- Improve flexibility and mobility,
- Learn techniques to prevent further injury,
Then physical therapy is a great option. The goal is not just to reduce pain but to equip you with the tools you need to maintain a pain-free life.
When to consider other medical professionals:
- Surgeon/Orthopedic Specialist: If your back pain is caused by a severe condition, such as a disc rupture or spinal stenosis that has not responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy, surgery might be necessary. However, physical therapy is often recommended post-surgery to support recovery.
- Do You Want a Holistic Approach to Pain Relief?
Physical therapists take a holistic approach to your health, looking at how your entire body works together. Your therapist will evaluate how your back pain might be linked to other areas, like your hips, legs, or posture, and address the root cause of the problem. This holistic approach often leads to longer-lasting relief because it treats the body as a whole, not just the pain site.
When to consider other medical professionals:
- Neurologist: If your back pain is accompanied by symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, a neurologist may be necessary to rule out nerve damage or other neurological issues. Once diagnosed, physical therapy can often help with nerve-related pain through specific exercises and stretches.
When Is Physical Therapy the Right Choice for Back Pain?
If your back pain is related to muscle imbalances, poor posture, or movement-related injuries, and you’re looking for a non-invasive, long-term solution, physical therapy is likely the best option. A PT can create a customized treatment plan focused on relieving pain, restoring function, and preventing future injuries. Physical therapy emphasizes active participation in your recovery process, helping you regain strength, mobility, and control over your pain.
If you are experiencing any of the following, it’s a good idea to consult with a physical therapist:
- Persistent or recurring back pain that affects your daily activities,
- Pain due to poor posture, muscle strain, or overuse,
- Limited mobility or difficulty performing movements you once found easy.
At Hohman Rehab, our experienced physical therapists specialize in treating back pain and helping you return to your active lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury or chronic discomfort, we’re here to guide you through every step of the recovery process.
Contact Us:
- Hohman Rehab and Sports Therapy
- Clermont Office: 236 Mohawk Road, Clermont, FL 34715
- Ocoee Office: 11095 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, FL 34761
- Apopka Office: 125 S. Park Avenue, Apopka, FL 32703
- Phone: 855-404-6908
- Fax: 352-404-6909
Let us help you find relief from back pain. Schedule your evaluation today!
Written By:
Dr. Katie Hohman
Physical Therapist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Founder
