Spring is a season of new beginnings, but for some people, it can also bring pain and discomfort. As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, many people are eager to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
However, certain pain conditions always tend to flare up during this time of year.
As the temperature rises and outdoor activities become more common, it’s important to understand the top 3 pain conditions that always happen in the spring and how physical therapy can help alleviate these issues.
Joint Pain
Joint pain is a common complaint in the spring, particularly in people who are already prone to joint problems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 32.5 million people in the United States are affected by some form of arthritis, which can cause joint pain and stiffness. The warmer weather and increased activity in the spring can aggravate these symptoms and make it difficult to perform daily tasks or enjoy outdoor activities.
Physical therapy is an effective way to manage joint pain. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that includes range of motion and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain and improve joint mobility.
They may also use modalities such as heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, or ultrasound to help reduce inflammation and pain. By working with a physical therapist, individuals with joint pain can improve their quality of life and remain active throughout the spring season.
Back Pain
Back pain is another common pain condition that tends to flare up in the spring.
According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and approximately 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Spring cleaning and gardening can put a strain on the back muscles and lead to discomfort and pain.
Physical therapy can help address the underlying causes of back pain. A physical therapist can design a treatment plan that includes exercises to improve posture, flexibility, and strength in the back muscles. They may also use manual therapies, such as massage or spinal manipulation, to alleviate pain and improve spinal alignment.
By addressing the root cause of back pain, physical therapy can help individuals lead a pain-free and active lifestyle during the spring season.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It is a common cause of heel pain, particularly in people who engage in high-impact activities, such as running or jumping. Springtime often leads to an increase in outdoor activities, which can aggravate plantar fasciitis symptoms.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 2 million Americans are treated for plantar fasciitis each year.
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for plantar fasciitis. A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program that includes stretching and strengthening exercises to alleviate pain and improve flexibility.
They may also use modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and promote healing. By working with a physical therapist, individuals with plantar fasciitis can improve their quality of life and enjoy pain-free activities.
Why Choose Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a safe, non-invasive way to treat pain conditions. Unlike medications, physical therapy doesn’t have any harmful side effects. It’s also a more effective long-term solution than relying on pain medication.
By addressing the underlying causes of your pain, physical therapy can help you achieve lasting relief and prevent your pain from recurring.
At our physical therapy clinic, our physical therapists are pain specialists who have extensive experience treating a wide range of pain conditions.
We use evidence-based treatments to help our patients get back to their active lifestyles. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, back pain, or plantar fasciitis, we can help you overcome your pain and get back to doing the things you love.
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with pain this spring, don’t let it hold you back from enjoying all that the season has to offer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our physical therapists. Our specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that will get you pain-free and ready to enjoy all the activities that spring has to offer.
Dr. James Pumarada is a licensed Physical Therapist and co-owner of Complete Physical Rehabilitation. With over 20+ years of treatment experience, he is a Sports Therapy Certified physical therapist, focusing on treating and training runners of all levels, and is one of the most sought after vestibular therapy specialists in Elizabeth and Jersey City where, along with his wife, Dr. Asha, they specializein the treatment of all dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance issues.