If you experience back pain for more than two weeks, physical therapy may be recommended. 90% of patients recover after 4-6 weeks of physical therapy. Your physical therapist will create a treatment plan to help you to regain the ability to move and to reduce pain. You will learn special exercises and tools to reduce pain, such as ultrasound and applying heat or cold. You will also learn how to prevent back injury in the future.
In general, most back pain patients receive therapy 1 to 3 times per week over the course of one or two months. The frequency of your appointments will depend on your condition and insurance coverage. Your initial therapy visit may last up to an hour. Future appointments will be 30-45 minutes long.
Some insurances (Medicare, Medicaid, worker’s compensation, and no fault) require a referral from your doctor prior to beginning physical therapy. Before making an appointment, please check with your insurance company to find out if a referral is needed.
