Laser Therapy Offers Back Pain Relief

By Sandra Riendeau, DPT

Harborside Physical Therapy and Wellness Center

. https://harborside-physical-therapy-and-wellness.business.site/

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Laser Therapy Offers Back Pain Relief

About 80% of people suffer from back pain at some time in their lives. Of those who develop acute low-back pain, up to 30% will go on to develop chronic low back pain. The toll on individuals, families and society makes the successful management of this common, but benign condition an important goal.

Back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work days. In a large survey, more than a quarter of adults reported experiencing low back pain during the past three months.

Men and women are equally affected by low back pain, which can range in intensity from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp sensation that leaves the person incapacitated. Pain can begin abruptly as a result of an accident or by lifting something heavy, or it can develop over time due to age-related changes of the spine. Sedentary lifestyles can also set the stage for low back pain, especially when a weekday routine of getting too little exercise is punctuated by a strenuous weekend workout.

Most low back pain is acute, or short term, and lasts a few days to a few weeks. It tends to resolve on its own with self-care and there is no residual loss of function. The majority of acute low back pain is mechanical in nature, meaning that there is a disruption in the way the components of the back (the spine, muscle, intervertebral discs, and nerves) fit together and move.

Doctors, physical therapists, and other medical professionals are now using laser therapy in a variety of ways. The main uses for laser therapy are tissue repair and relief from inflammation and pain, including back pain.

Patients report long-lasting pain relief and reduction in inflammation – with no side effects. While the number of treatments required may vary depending on the acuity of the condition, many patients experience lasting relief after only a couple treatments.

Laser therapy is a painless procedure, and usually creates a gentle, soothing warmth. Many patients report enjoying the experience. Laser therapy treatments are quick, usually 5-10 minutes depending on the size, depth, and acuteness of the condition being treated. For people with packed schedules, fast and effective treatments to relieve your pain are a must.