Managing Chronic Back Pain in Athletes with Physical Therapy
Sarah (not her real name) was an avid powerlifter. She trained regularly and often participated in local meets. When she noticed an ache in her lower back, she tried to shrug it off, assuming it would go away on its own. It didn’t. Four months later, Sarah was still struggling and decided to seek help from UNIQ Physical Therapy since we have experience treating chronic back pain in athletes.
Everyone experiences pain sometimes. The reason Sarah assumed her pain would go away on its own was because, often, that’s what happens: pain is our body’s way of letting us know something’s wrong. Sarah assumed she had gone a little too hard at her session the day before, but a little active recovery would have her back to normal.
Unfortunately, chronic pain is different. It refers to any pain that lasts longer than three months–that is, well past the time that an injury would have healed. Therefore, treating chronic back pain requires a comprehensive look at the athlete to determine what is causing their chronic pain.
In Sarah’s case, we discovered that she had suffered a muscle strain in her lower back. However, because she didn’t address it initially, the injury worsened over time, causing her both pain and some mobility restrictions in her lumbar spine.
The good news is that once we understand the reason for her pain, we were able to create a customized treatment plan to address it–just as we’ve done for other athletes. Curious to know what that process looks like? Keep reading!
Chronic Back Pain In Athletes: What You Need to Know
Chronic back pain is a surprisingly common issue that can hinder performance and affect overall well-being. Understanding the causes of back pain in athletes is essential for effective management and recovery. Here are some of the most common:
Overuse Injuries
- Sports that involve repetitive motions, such as running, swimming, and rowing, can cause wear and tear on the spinal structures, leading to chronic pain.
Muscle Imbalances
- Athletes train hard–but often target specific areas while neglecting others. This imbalance can put extra stress on the back, resulting in pain. Inadequate core strength, in particular, is usually a culprit for chronic back pain.
Poor Techniques
- Incorrect training techniques and improper form can strain the spine and surrounding muscles, making you more prone to overuse injuries and chronic pain.
Previous Injuries
- Athletes who have suffered from back injuries in the past are more likely to experience chronic pain. Scar tissue, weakened muscles, and lingering inflammation can all contribute to ongoing discomfort.
How We Can Help You Manage Chronic Back Pain
Living with chronic back pain is a challenge no matter who you are, but it can be incredibly frustrating for people used to living a physically active lifestyle. Physical therapists at UNIQ Physical Therapy get it. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment program to help you safely and effectively return to your favorite activities.
Here are some of the techniques we might include:
- Manual therapy techniques like spinal mobilizations or soft tissue manipulation to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote blood flow to the affected area
- Treatment modalities like heat therapy or electrical stimulation for additional pain management
- Targeted stretches that target the muscles of the back, hips, and legs to improve mobility
- Strengthening exercises that target the core and back muscles to help stabilize the spine and reduce strain on the back.
- Personalized guidance to ensure you’re using proper posture and body mechanics during activities, helping to prevent future injuries
We aim to address your chronic back pain at its root. That way, we aren’t just treating your symptoms–we’re helping you find a lasting solution that will alleviate your discomfort and boost your overall sports performance.
Find Relief from Lingering Back Pain Today!
The team at UNIQ Physical Therapy understands the complexities of chronic back pain in athletes. We’re dedicated to helping you find the best treatment solution for your needs. Schedule an appointment at our PA clinic today to get started.