5 ways physical therapy helps with joint and back pain

For many living with joint or back pain, physical therapy can be a big part of the healing journey. Your care team may suggest physical therapy if your pain makes it hard to do everyday activities, like walking, enjoying hobbies, or performing at work.
A physical therapist can work with you before and after surgery to help you start moving more confidently and safely. For some, physical therapy may even help avoid surgery completely.
Physical therapy includes a mix of stretches, exercises and other techniques that can help:
1. Restore function.
When you’re dealing with joint or muscle pain, a physical therapist can coach you through exercises to help you get stronger and more flexible. Over time, this can make it easier to move around and, ultimately, improve your quality of life.
2. Learn more about your body.
Your physical therapist will start by measuring your muscle strength, joint range of motion, and quality of movement. As you learn more about how your body moves, you’ll have an easier time improving your condition during treatment.
3. Manage your pain.
Exercise can be very helpful for joint pain — especially if you’re working with a physical therapist. They can teach you how to be active without hurting yourself. In physical therapy, you’ll work through an exercise program to increase mobility and help relieve your pain.
4. Move with confidence.
Your physical therapist can help you work on daily tasks that may be challenging or painful. As you get stronger, you’ll start moving with more confidence. You’ll feel more comfortable being active in your work, sports, and everyday life.
5. Prevent reinjury.
A physical therapist can teach you how to support your joints and muscles as you move. They’ll help you avoid reinjury and stay active doing the things you love.
How Carrum Health can help
Physical therapy can make a big difference for people living with pain — whether or not they end up needing surgery. If you’re suffering from ongoing joint, muscle or back pain that’s impacting your daily life, contact Carrum Health. We partner with top providers to review your case and help you find the right treatment plan for you. If your provider recommends surgery, most, if not all, of your costs may be covered.
Find out if the Carrum Health benefit is available to you. Check your eligibility.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.