Health Center
Pain is a completely personal experience, and it is one of the most common symptoms that may lead someone to seek the help of a physical therapist or other health care professional.
In recent years, an alarming number of Americans have been prescribed opioids for pain relief. Because opioid side effects include withdrawal symptoms, depression, overdose, and addiction, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends safe alternative treatments like physical therapy for most chronic pain.
Why See a Physical Therapist for Pain?
Whereas opioids only mask the sensation of pain, physical therapists treat pain through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement, resulting in positive side effects like improved mobility, independence, and wellness.
Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation. To find a physical therapist in your area, visit Find a PT.
Symptoms & Conditions Guides
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- Low Back Pain
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- Pelvic Pain
- Peripheral Neuropathy
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Additional Pain Content
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If you experience an injury or develop pain, seeing a physical therapist early can help you address and manage your symptoms.
Apr 10, 2014 | Podcast
Everybody experiences pain at some point. But understanding pain is a different matter. Two physical therapists discuss science's new understanding of how pain works and more.
Oct 30, 2018 | Health Tips
No one wants to live in chronic pain. Understanding how pain works, what you can do about it, and where to get help are keys to addressing it without the risk of prescribed opioids.
Jan 30, 2013 | Podcast
A physical therapist discusses the holistic approach that physical therapists use to treat chronic pain.
Mar 26, 2024 | Health Tips
Research shows that both strengthening and stretching exercise programs can greatly reduce pain and improve walking in people with plantar fasciitis. These six exercises from physical therapists may help.