KORT Physical Therapists Use New Treatment for Chronic Back Pain. Recent Studies Shows Balance is Key. Next to the common cold, back pain is the second leading cause for seeking medical attention in the United States. It can be caused by numerous structures in our body and the symptoms can be painful and debilitating. KORT physical therapists would be happy to see you and help determine the best approach for you.
Lexington, KY (PRWEB) December 08, 2011
According to Dr. Chris Kaczmarek, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS with KORT, treatment strategies over the years have focused on restoring flexibility, improving overall core strength and stability, improving spinal mobility and helping to properly perform correct sitting postures and lifting mechanics. But, could there be something else to help those who have not responded well to these treatments?
In a recent article published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, a missing component to the overall spectrum of treatment for those with chronic low back pain may have been uncovered. The researchers’ hypothesized reason for back pain was improper sequencing of muscle activity.
“Essentially some muscles fire and work when they are supposed to but others do not. A person can have great physical strength, but if the timing is off the forces that go through our back with activity do not get transferred correctly and can lead to pain,” said Kaczmarek.
What these researchers looked at was constructing a treatment program that included core trunk balance stability training. Balance training causes all the muscles to work simultaneous to achieve a specific movement, stability or activity, said Kaczmarek.
The research findings demonstrated significant improvements in those who performed the core balance training program, said Kaczmarek. The improvements included a reduction in level of disability (meaning they feel they have less impairment and activity limitation due to their back pain), increased self reported overall physical quality of life, and had reduction in pain with certain positions, he said.
“These findings show some positive support that individuals with chronic low back pain can still improve their overall quality of life and function better with daily activities as a result of improving trunk balance” said Kaczmarek. “Using these types of studies helps us as practitioners to formulate treatment programs for our patients.”
Kaczmarek cautions, “Not all treatment programs are effective for everyone. It is critical to get examined by a trained therapist to see which program is right for you. Any KORT physical therapist would be happy to see you and help determine the best approach.”
1Gatti R, Faccendini S, et al. Efficacy of trunk balance exercises for individuals with chronic low back pain: A randomized clinical trial. J Ortho Sports Phys Ther. 2011;41:542-552
Locally managed and operated, Kentucky Orthopedic Rehab Team (KORT) is Kentucky's premier provider of outpatient physical and occupational therapy services specializing in orthopedics, sports and industrial medicine. Since 1987, KORT has provided clinical and customer service excellence to patients in KORT clinics, at employer sites, and with high school, college, and professional sports teams. With more than 20 years experience in the Physical Therapy Industry, KORT operates over 35 clinics throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana, with more board-certified specialists than any other physical therapy provider in Kentucky. For more information visit http://www.kort.com
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Angie Moore
KORT Physical Therapy
859-396-7367
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