Before You Book That Back Surgery, Try Physical Therapy First!

Back pain is one of the most widespread and disabling conditions that people face. It can range from a mild ache to excruciating pain, and it has the power to significantly disrupt your daily life. Whether it’s the inability to lift groceries, play with your kids, or even sit comfortably at work, back pain can steal away the activities you once loved.

Did you know that up to 80% of people will experience back pain at some point in their life? Despite how common it is, the treatment options for back pain are varied, and one of the most drastic options people turn to is surgery. While surgery might seem like the quick fix, it’s a significant procedure that comes with its own set of risks, including long recovery times and a commitment to months of rehabilitation. But here’s the good news: surgery is not your only option!

At Empower Rehab, we believe that before you rush into back surgery, you should consider an alternative that can not only relieve your pain but also help you regain mobility and strength—physical therapy.

Why Physical Therapy Should Be Your First Step

It’s common to associate physical therapy with recovery after surgery, but what most people don’t realize is that PT can be just as effective (if not more so) for preventing surgery. If you’re dealing with back pain, physical therapy should be at the top of your list as a non-invasive, holistic approach to pain relief.

Physical therapy is more than just a set of exercises. It’s a comprehensive approach that targets the root causes of your pain. In fact, many cases of back pain can be resolved through manual therapy, including heat, ice, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic massage. These methods are used to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and relax tight muscles. But physical therapy isn’t just about immediate relief—it’s about strengthening your body to prevent future pain.

Many people fail to realize that back pain often stems from weak muscles surrounding the spine. If you have weak core muscles in your abdomen and legs, they may not be able to support your spine properly, leading to discomfort and injury. Strengthening these muscle groups can provide long-term relief, helping your back find the support it needs to heal.

It’s important to remember that physical therapy is a process that takes time. But the good news is that your physical therapist can design a personalized exercise plan to target the underlying causes of your pain and help you achieve long-term relief.

How Physical Therapy Prepares You for Surgery (and Reduces Recovery Time)

For those who are already considering surgery to address back pain, physical therapy can play a critical role before the procedure. While most people think of PT as a post-surgery treatment, starting physical therapy beforehand can dramatically improve your overall recovery experience.

One of the key benefits of pre-surgical physical therapy is preparation. The stronger you are going into surgery, the better your body will handle the demands of the healing process. Even just a few physical therapy sessions can reduce recovery time by up to 25%! This means that while you’re already mentally preparing for the challenges of post-surgery rehab, PT can help make that process quicker, easier, and less painful.

Physical therapists also help strengthen areas that may be weakened or impacted by the upcoming surgery. They can improve muscle tone, promote joint mobility, and boost your cardiovascular fitness, ensuring that your body is in the best shape possible to withstand surgery. Stronger muscles and a better cardiovascular system also make the recovery process less grueling. You’ll heal faster and feel more energized as you regain your mobility.

The Power of Movement: Less Pain, Better Function

One of the most significant ways physical therapy can help you before surgery is by improving movement patterns. When you’re in pain, your body naturally wants to rest and avoid moving, but that only reinforces the problem. In many cases, back pain can be caused or worsened by poor movement habits. Through physical therapy, you’ll learn the proper ways to move, bend, lift, stretch, and sit—reducing the risk of further injury and minimizing your pain levels.

Physical therapists are experts in human movement. They can assess how your body is functioning and identify where you may be moving incorrectly, leading to unnecessary strain on your back. By teaching you how to perform everyday activities with the right posture and body mechanics, they can help you avoid exacerbating your pain.

The Empower Rehab Advantage: Customized Care for Lasting Relief

At Empower Rehab, we’re not just about treating symptoms—we’re about empowering you to take control of your health and recovery. During your initial consultation, our experienced physical therapists will thoroughly assess your condition and pain level, review any available imaging studies, and collaborate with your surgeon to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Whether your pain is mild or severe, our therapists will provide hands-on, personalized care to help you reduce pain, increase mobility, and strengthen the muscles that support your spine. We’ll work with you to set realistic goals and help you achieve a better quality of life without relying on invasive treatments.

Even if you’re set on surgery, starting physical therapy now can optimize your results and help you return to the activities you love faster.

Ready to Take Control of Your Back Pain?

Don’t wait until surgery is your only option. Whether you’re considering surgery or already have a date set, physical therapy can provide significant benefits in the weeks leading up to your procedure, and it can offer lasting relief even without surgery.

Call Empower Rehab today to schedule a free consultation with one of our expert physical therapists. We’ll help you create a customized plan to relieve your back pain, restore your mobility, and empower your recovery—without the need for invasive surgery. Let us show you how physical therapy can help you move better, feel better, and live better.