Expert Advice   Print Version Q. Will I need to have therapy until my pain goes completely away? A. Because back pain is unpredictable, it is not realistic to expect that you will be pain free when you complete your therapy treatments. Every effort will be made to help take your pain away, but success should be measured by how well you can manage your spine condition -- even if you still have pain. The first goal of treatment is to find ways of controlling your pain and symptoms. This can include the use of treatment interventions like heat, ice, and manual therapy. By helping you understand how the spine works and which positions and movements can be used to protect your back, you may find it easier to manage your pain and symptoms. As your symptoms begin to ease, you will be given specific exercises to improve your mobility and strength. An important part of helping you manage your spine condition is called functional training, which can include posture and alignment, safe body movements at home and at work, and safe lifting techniques. Once your pain is controlled, your range of motion is improved, and your strength is returning, you will be progressed to a final home program. Your therapist will go over ways to take care of your soreness at home, and you'll be given exercises to continue improving the range of motion, strength, and function of your spine. Print Version		Anatomy and Function of the Spine Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis Diagnostic Tests for Spine Problems Q. When can I play golf, ride a bike, or go hiking after spine surgery? A. It depends on the type and location of your surgery. A micro-discectomy… Clicking on any of the links will take you to a Web site to which this Privacy Policy does not apply. You are solely responsible for your interactions with such Web sites. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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