Welcome! “The PT Handbook” is a physical therapy newsletter discussing all things physical therapy/sports medicine. This newsletter is an extension of our philosophy at “Art of PT Sports & Performance Physical Therapy” where our patient population includes athletes and active individuals.
This handbook will provide practical PT tips and dive into hot topics surrounding the sports rehab world. If you have questions about the field of physical therapy or need to schedule an appointment (virtual/in person), contact us with the link below!
Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT
Founder, Art of PT Sports & Performance Physical Therapy LLC- Athlete-level care for every active body
PT Handbook Conversation: Back Pain Strikes Again!
Heres a quick story from a patient I got few weeks ago, and have had many similar stories through out my 7 yrs as a doctor of physical therapy. He did not get an MRI and was very afraid of what he was feeling in his back….
Back Pain is very treatable without an MRI…
John (can’t give his real name HIPAA ofc) was warming up for a pickleball game when he bent over and his back “went out.” Suddenly, he was in pain, skipping his favorite activities, and worried something was seriously wrong. Like so many people, he assumed the pain meant major structural damage and that resting completely or getting an MRI would give him all the answers.
But after getting referred by a friend of his to me, we started physical therapy right away. I screened out any red flags (red flags meaning I would send him for an MRI or to an MD) and continued with the evaluation. We began to add in gentle daily movement/stretches and rehab exercises, addressed his recovery methods, and I talked to him about how pain doesn’t always equal injury. I reassured him nothing was seriously wrong, he did not need an MRI, pills or back surgery (last resorts). He began gaining confidence in his movement once again and got stronger while working with me (mentally and physically). He started feeling better within weeks. His posture wasn't the main problem (many people still say this) and he did not need an MRI. That all would've been time wasted.
Now that is all a very general way of saying what happened but you get the idea.
I wrote all that to say....back pain often isn’t what it seems. Most times (up to 90% of the time statistically speaking) small, thoughtful changes can make a huge difference. This is done through physical therapy of course.
Want to know more? I dive deeper into these lessons, bust common back pain myths, and share practical strategies in my newest podcast below. Don’t miss it.
Back pain is everywhere…
Takeaway: See a qualified physical therapist first for your back pain 😄
This newsletter feeds into my newest podcast out NOW, check it out below. And stop believing the lies you’ve been told about back pain….
☺ If back pain has been slowing you down, let’s fix it. Book a FREE virtual session with me and start moving with confidence again. Don’t wait until it gets worse. CLICK BELOW:
Enjoying The PT Handbook? We’d love to hear what you think! Hit reply and let us know 😄 Did this newsletter help? I read every message and appreciate your feedback. Yes I really read everything lol.
Adios,
Dr. Gerry Robles PT, DPT
Founder, Art of PT Sports & Performance Physical Therapy LLC