How Physical Therapy Can Help Relieve Chronic Pain

For many people suffering from chronic pain, physical therapy is an effective way to find relief. But how does PT help relieve chronic pain? Robert Stravinsky takes a closer look.

There are many different causes of chronic pain, but the good news is that physical therapy can help relieve pain regardless of the cause. PT works by helping to stretch and strengthen the muscles and joints, which in turn helps to improve the range of motion and reduce inflammation. PT can also help to break the cycle of chronic pain by teaching patients how to better manage their pain.

How physical therapy can help with pain:

One of the most common ways that PT helps relieve chronic pain is through the use of heat and cold therapy. Heat therapy dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow to the area, which helps to reduce inflammation and pain. Cold therapy, on the other hand, numbs the area and reduces swelling. This combination of heat and cold can be extremely effective in relieving chronic pain.

In addition to heat and cold therapy, PT may also use electrical stimulation, ultrasound, or massage to help relieve chronic pain. Electrical stimulation sends low-voltage electrical currents through the skin to stimulate the nerves and block pain signals from reaching the brain. Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate heat that penetrates deep into the tissue to reduce inflammation and pain. Massage relaxes muscles and breaks up knots that can cause pain.

Conclusion:
If you’re suffering from chronic pain, Robert Stravinsky physical therapy may be able to help. PT can help relieve pain by stretching and strengthening muscles and joints, improving the range of motion, reducing inflammation, and breaking the cycle of chronic pain. Heat and cold therapy, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and massage are all common techniques used by PTs to help relieve chronic pain. Talk to your doctor about whether PT may be right for you.