[Back Pain]

Back and neck pain are very common, costing millions in lost work, as well as millions in medical, state and insurance resources every year.    Generally, there are three phases to back and neck pain rehabilitation.

These include:    

Phase I: Acute Phase During this initial phase, the therapist and treatment team focus on making a diagnosis, developing an appropriate treatment plan, and implementing the treatment regimen to reduce the initial neck pain and source of inflammation. This may include the utilization of ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or specialized injections.    

Phase II. Recovery Phase Once the initial pain and inflammation are better managed, the rehabilitation team then focuses on helping the patient to restore working function of the body. This includes returning the patient to normal daily activities while implementing a specialized exercise program that is designed to help the individual regain flexibility and strength.    

Phase III. Return to Function The goal of this phase of neck/back pain rehabilitation is twofold: educating the patient on ways to prevent further injury and strain to the neck/back, and helping the individual to maintain an appropriate level of physical fitness to help further increase strength and endurance.