Top 8 Pain-Relieving Techniques in Physical Therapy

Pain is something that we all experience, and we all deal with pain in different ways. While pain management is a common dilemma for thousands of people every day, the good news is that there are many ways that pain can be managed and relieved. Physical therapy is an ever changing and evolving field that brings pain relief to many patients each year.

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Science has brought some great advancements in the realm of pain management and pain relief, and the Brian Center of Durham employs plenty of them to help patients every day. Take a look at the following pain relief techniques, and talk to your doctor about which pain management options might be right for you.

1. Pace Yourself: Above all else, it is important to pace yourself when employing any pain relief technique. The road to pain relief and management is a marathon, not a sprint. It is important to know your limits and capabilities, so be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any pain relief or pain management treatment.
2. Stretching: Stretching is a mild form of exercise that has shown great promise as a way to reduce pain. Stretching in various ways, including yoga, has been shown to increase flexibility, which may provide relief from some types of pain.
3. Strength Exercise: One way to help control pain is to develop muscle ability around the site where the pain originates. For example, if you have pain in your knee, strengthening your leg muscles may provide some relief. Talk to your physical therapist about whether strength training exercises could be beneficial to your pain management plan.
4. Cardio Exercise: Although not ideal for some types of pain, cardiovascular exercises that raise your heartbeat are a great way to stay in shape, which may help reduce pain in the long run.
5. Water Exercise: If some forms of exercise are too high-impact for you to manage, water or pool exercises may work better for you. They combine the benefits of regular exercise with the support and safety of performing exercises in the water. This technique creates a low-impact workout that many patients have success using.
6. Ice: The simple application of ice is great for any pain associated with swelling and inflammation. While it may not cure chronic pain, it is an ideal, simple treatment for any inflammation or swelling that may arise due to other techniques and exercises.
7. Heat: Heat is a great treatment for injuries or pain related to cramps, muscle tightness or spasms. It is a good technique to use heat after you have problems with another form of exercise technique.
8. Talk to Your Doctor: It sounds obvious, but it is extremely important to discuss pain relief and pain management techniques with your doctor before starting any regimen. Your doctor can assess your unique situation and come up with a plan that is right for you. The physical therapists at the Brian Center of Durham are pain management experts, and will guide you through the process of tackling your pain.