What is pain rehabilitation?
Pain rehabilitation is the application of movement, education and manual therapy to treat pain conditions. These services are provided by physical therapist and physical therapist assistants to help recover from painful conditions and regain an active lifestyle.
What conditions are commonly treated in pain rehabilitation?
Physical therapists are uniquely positioned to treat pain conditions such as:
- Back pain/Neck pain
- Headache/migraine
- Strain/sprain
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Neuropathic pain
Evaluation process
As you begin physical therapy, your therapist will conduct an examination to discover what is contributing to your pain condition. This will start with an interview about your symptoms and lifestyle factors. The examination also includes measuring your movements, strength and balance. A comprehensive exam also includes manually touching and moving the area involved. After this, your therapist will discuss a treatment plan designed to decrease your pain and improve function.
What does treatment include?
Physical therapy may include various exercises aimed at improving range of motion, endurance, coordination, or strength. Often this is a progression leading to the ability to complete your specific daily activities with greater ease and less pain.
Manual therapy may also be a part of the plan where the therapist assesses and mobilizes (or moves) the tissues that are tight and stiff. Such resistance to movement can be painful and impede mobility.
Finally, there may be a need for modalities to further assist in the treatment of pain. Different forms of electrical stimulation are available to assist in pain reduction. Some therapists are even skilled in advanced techniques of dry needling. Dealing with a painful condition often has more than just physical consequences. Frustration, sleep disturbance, and uncertainty may develop when pain had been more persistent.
Physical therapists are also able to help teach skills to cope with pain during your care. You may learn a relaxation exercise, sleep strategies and different strategies to develop your comprehensive plan.
How long is the program?
You and your therapist will determine the length of treatment. You could meet with your therapist 1-3 times per week based on the treatment plan that works for you.