Physical therapy ranks among the top treatment choices of their readers with back pain, according to a new Consumer Reports survey of more than 14,000 Americans who experience the condition. The report also recommends manual therapy (spinal manipulation) and exercise for low back pain. Physical therapists perform both of these types of treatments regularly. In fact, many of the studies supporting spinal manipulation and exercise for low back pain have been published by physical therapists.

More and more studies are showing that physical therapy is a great first choice treatment for low back pain.  Here are just a few:

1. Physical Therapy for Degenerative Disc Disease (common cause of low back pain)
2. Physical Therapy Exercises For Low Back Pain
3. Predicting patients that will benefit from spinal manipulation by a physical therapist

If you are interested in highly effective low back pain treatment contact Belmar Physical Therapy at (303) 274-2404.

Eccentric Exercises May Help You Recover from Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis causes pain in the tendon that attaches the calf muscle to the heal.  Initially this pain is caused by inflammation.  However, recent research tells us that as time goes on the pain in the tendon is not caused by inflammation.  Rather the pain is caused by nerves growing into the tendon.

Recent research also shows us that as specific type of exercise can alleviate this painful condition.  This specific type of exercise consists of eccentric contractions of the calf muscle.  An eccentric contraction entails a slow lengthening of the muscle as it is contracting.  The exercises are outlined below.  Perform 3 sets of 15 repetitions 2 times per day.  You should notice an improvement within 6 weeks.

Also, remember that Achilles issues may be caused by a mechanical problem in the leg and this will need to be addressed to avoid re-injury.  We can help you treat and prevent re-injury at Belmar Physical Therapy.

When you can perform 3 sets of 15 easily with both
legs progress to single leg.