Many patients with low back pain should consider physical therapy as a first line of treatment for their condition, according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). An article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends that in most cases of symptomatic lumbar degenerative disc disease, a common cause of low back pain (LBP), the most effective treatment is physical therapy combined with anti-inflammatory medications and concludes that physical therapy and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are the cornerstones of non-surgical treatment.
Symptomatic lumbar degenerative disc disease develops when a disc weakens (often due to repetitive strain), is injured, or deteriorates from aging. As a result, the disc is unable to hold the vertebrae as it should and the lack of stability can cause back pain.
Approximately 75 to 85 percent of adults will be affected by low back pain during their lifetimes.
Physical therapist intervention includes strengthening of core muscle groups, including the abdominal wall, which can have positive effects in patients with this condition.