Spine Therapy

Four out of five people will experience back and neck pain. Some of it will go away on its own but some will need a little help.

The physical therapists at UM BWMC will guide you through the principles of stretching and strengthening, which will in turn, help manage pain and accelerate tissue healing. Ice, heat, ultrasound, traction and electrical stimulation are available if the pain is severe. The therapist will educate you on proper posture and ergonomic principles to preserve the spine as well as resting in neutral spine position. Stretching exercises and progression of the exercises will help abolish pain and stiffness to specific regions.

Awareness of body mechanics and daily stretching for life will help prevent future occurrences. As you are able to maneuver through episodes of back or neck pain, you will learn what program is needed to deter and manage relapses. No matter how diligent you are, you are bound to have a forgetful moment and do an activity improperly and suffer flare up, but knowledge of specific strategies will help eliminate symptoms in a couple days instead of suffering for weeks or months. If surgery is needed, the inpatient team of physical and occupational therapists will work with the physicians to get you on your feet and back home.

For additional information you can contact the Rehabilitation Services Department at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center by calling 410-787-4433.