Neck Pain Therapy Baltimore, MD 
After a serious injury, it is common for people to turn to LeMoine Physical Therapy for neck pain therapy Baltimore, MD residents trust for quality care. In particular, people who are involved in a car accident are likely to suffer from very painful injuries that require long-term medical care. Conditions such as whiplash, neck pain, brain injuries, spinal cord damage, chronic pain, impairment, disability, and physical or cognitive challenges can result from a serious car collision.
Those who have been hurt in an accident can benefit from seeing a physical therapist (PT) for many types of injuries. These professionals can assess and treat those who are recovering from serious injury events.
Physical Therapy Defined
Physical therapy is defined as the art and science of helping people who are struggling with disease, injury, and/or deformity, while supporting their well-being and overall health. People who are having trouble recovering from injury can get the mental, physical, and emotional guidance needed to obtain goals and reach their new potential.
Role of a Physical Therapist
A physical therapist works with the patient based on his or her individual needs. A therapist will start by looking over medical records and then speaking with the injured patient and maybe his or her family too. The next step is to develop a treatment plan based on the abilities and goals for that person. Here are tasks that a physical therapist may do to support a patient’s healing and recovery:
- Testing cognitive and physical capabilities and restrictions
- Educating patients on how to perform actions based on their capabilities
- Evaluating the patient’s physical strength, balance, and coordination
- Introducing new equipment or materials to help make certain actions easier
- Providing exercises and stretches to perform at home for optimal treatment
Some cases may involve helping a person recover enough to be able to return back to work. For others with severe injuries, goals may entail being able to take care of oneself again, such as performing grooming activities and eating independently. Or, someone who needs to use a wheelchair because of the car accident injuries may require accommodations, such as ramps and lifts. A physical therapist can help that person get accustomed to a new way of living.
Chronic neck pain is what leads many to visit LeMoine Physical Therapy for Baltimore neck pain therapy in MD. We believe that non-invasive treatments must be your first line of defense in warding off neck pain. Sitting at a desk, working out, engaging in sports or other physical activity can put strain on the neck, causing inflammation, pain, and discomfort.
A physical therapist from our clinic can assess your neck pain, identify a possible root cause, and then create a plan for how to alleviate the intensity and frequency of your neck pain. Chronic neck pain is considered any pain flare up that lasts for longer than a few weeks. With help from a physical therapist who can tailor to your individual needs, you can regain strength and flexibility back in your neck area.
Here are just a few stretches and exercises that we may suggest doing on a regular basis to help alleviate chronic neck pain:
Head and Shoulder Rolls
These are great for warming up before other exercises. Keep shoulders relaxed and arms at sides. Head upright, lift and roll shoulders. Do ten rolls forward and then ten rolls backward, pausing briefly between each roll. Before rolling the head, you want to stretch your neck. Shoulder blades relaxed, head sitting directly over neck upright, begin by dipping chin slowly toward chest. Hold this for a few breaths, unless you feel pain, then stop and call us!
Otherwise, hold for a few inhales and exhales, then switch to stretching your head over to the left and right side, and with the head tilted back. Be sure to not do a full head roll, as this can actually strain your neck and make matters worse.
Prone Rows for Muscle Strength
Depending on the severity and reason for your neck pain, a physical therapist will recommend certain stretches. Lie facedown on your bed or other comfortable surface. Your face should be in the corner so you can dangle arms off both sides. Row with your arms upward, bending the elbows and then squeezing shoulder blades together, but don’t move your head. Try one or two sets of 20 repetitions, and add light weight if it is too easy.
Neck Stretch While Seated
This can be especially helpful for those who sit at a desk for work or hobbies. Sit upright in the chair and with feet flat resting on the ground. Extend your left arm over your left side and put your left hand over the top of your head. Tilt your head gently to the right, using pressure with your hand to slowly intensify the stretch. If you can hold for 30 seconds, then do so, otherwise stop if there is any pain. Repeat on the other side. This stretch helps elongate the levator scapula muscles on each side of the neck.
How Family Members Can Get Involved
Caring family members of someone who recently was in a serious accident may need help about how they can support their loved one. Family members may need training on how to help their family member without taking away opportunities for recovery and becoming self-sufficient.
Contact LeMoine Physical Therapy Now
To hear more about how neck pain therapy in Baltimore, Maryland at LeMoine Physical Therapy can help alleviate your chronic neck pain, call us today to schedule an appointment!