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Exercise therapy for back pain
physical therapy for back pain · back exercises · exercise therapy · physiotherapy for the spine
Sessions with an instructor: exercises that strengthen your back and belly muscles and teach you to move correctly.
For neck or low back pain, after a flare-up, a disc herniation, or spine surgery, as your doctor prescribes.
⏱ Duration: a session usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes; the course usually runs several weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Tests. Bring X-rays, MRI scans, and reports, if you have them. The instructor will choose exercises.
- Food. A light meal 1 to 2 hours before the session.
- Clothes. Comfortable sportswear, and socks or clean shoes.
What to bring
- Your doctor's referral
- Scans and reports
- Sportswear
- Water
How it goes
- The instructor asks about your pain and watches how you move
- Exercises are shown, and your technique is checked
- You do exercises lying, sitting, or standing, at your own pace
- The load is increased gradually
- At the end, stretching and advice for home
What you'll feel
- Mild muscle tiredness is normal
- There should be no sharp pain during exercise. Tell the instructor right away
Afterwards
- Do your home routine regularly, a little every day
- Muscles may ache for 1 to 2 days after the first sessions
- If the pain gets worse, discuss it with your doctor
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Numbness between the legs, bladder problems, or fast-growing leg weakness: call emergency services
- Sudden severe pain after exercise: stop and see a doctor
Common questions
Can I exercise when my back hurts?
During an acute flare-up, activity is usually limited. Your doctor will say when to start.
How long until I see results?
The first improvement usually shows after a few weeks of regular sessions.