Low Back Pain

What Is Low Back Pain?

Low back pain affects people of all ages, including active kids, athletes and adults doing everyday tasks. It might come on suddenly or build up slowly and can interfere with how you move and feel.

What Causes Low Back Pain?

Low back pain may stem from issues involving your muscles, joints, nerves or discs. Common causes include:

• Age-related changes like arthritis or spinal stenosis
• Bulging discs that press on nerves
• Injuries from sports, falls or accidents
• Muscle strain from lifting, twisting or overuse
• Poor posture or prolonged sitting
• Stress or tension, which can cause muscle tightness
• Weak core muscles that reduce spinal support

Low Back Pain Symptoms

Low back pain can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the cause. You may experience:

• Aching or stiffness in the lower back
• Discomfort after sitting or standing for long periods
• Pain radiates down your leg, which could be a sign of sciatica
• Limited range of motion, including difficulty bending, twisting or standing upright
• Muscle spasms or tightness
• Sharp or stabbing pain with certain movements

Easy Access, Close to Home

With more than 50 locations across Florida, Brooks makes it easy to find care close to home. Many clinics offer extended weekday hours, so you can schedule visits before or after work. And you might not need a referral to start treatment, depending on your insurance. Get more information about becoming a patient.

How Is Low Back Pain Treated?

Physical therapy plays a key role in relieving low back pain. At Brooks, physical therapists who are experienced in orthopedic issues guide your care. They have deep expertise treating low back pain. Whether symptoms stem from muscle strain, disc issues or something else, we tailor treatment to reduce discomfort and restore movement.

Personalized low back pain treatments may include:

• Cupping: This method uses suction to lift the skin and underlying tissue, easing muscle tightness and improving blood flow.
• Dry needling: Physical therapists insert thin needles to release tight muscle areas, known as trigger points.
• Mobility exercises: Exercises focused on mobility, stretching and strengthening target weak muscles or muscles in need of lengthening.
• Body mechanics training: We help improve your posture and educate you on safe ways to bend, lift and carry objects.

Why Choose Brooks Rehabilitation for Low Back Pain Treatment?

Orthopedic physical therapists at Brooks combine advanced technology with specialized expertise to treat low back pain at its source.

Highlights of our program include:

• Advanced assessments: For some people, low back pain is due to irregular patterns in how they walk, run and move. Our Motion Analysis Center is home to sophisticated technologies that pinpoint the source of these issues. This information helps us develop targeted treatments that correct the way you move.
• Specialized care for athletes: Sports-certified physical therapists provide expert care for active people of all ages, including children and teens. Services are tailored to the specific movements of your sport so you can get back in the game without discomfort. Get more information about sports therapy.

FAQs About Orthopedic Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain

What type of physical therapy is best for chronic low back pain?

The best care for chronic low back pain starts with understanding what’s causing it. At Brooks, your therapist works one-on-one with you to perform an evaluation create a plan that reflects your symptoms and goals. Treatment may include guided movement, hands-on techniques and exercises that help you move more comfortably.

When should I see a physical therapist for low back pain?

If you’ve had symptoms for more than a few days, it goes away and comes back or gets in the way of daily activities, it’s time to seek care. If you’re not sure where to turn, physical therapists at Brooks can help. Depending on your insurance, we may be able to see you without a referral.

Will physical therapy help if I’ve had low back pain for years?

Yes. Even if you’ve lived with back pain for a long time, physical therapy at Brooks can still make a difference. We take time to learn about your symptoms, treatment history, what’s worked and what hasn’t. Then, we build a personalized physical therapy plan that helps you move better and feel more in control.