Neck Pain: Passive Physical Therapy

Passive treatments are performed as part of a physical therapy program for neck pain to assist relieve pain and/or stiffness. In theory, neck exercises might be more helpful when pain and stiffness are minimized

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 Neck Pain: Passive Physical Therapy

Passive Physical Therapy Varieties

Some passive therapy treatment types, also known as modalities, are as follows:

• Heat and/or ice therapy To help relieve pain and swelling, ice or cold packs can be administered. Heat packs can be used to improve blood flow and relax stiff muscles. Depending on the patient's injury or preferences, heat and cold therapy may be alternated in some circumstances.

• Theraputic massage. Massage can assist to release and relax muscles, which can help to alleviate pain and stiffness. Massage of the back of the neck and associated areas, including the back of the head, shoulders, and back, is frequent when treating neck pain.

• Electrotherapy. This therapy employs a device that sends a moderate electrical current through cables to the wounded or pained area. Electrotherapy can be used for a variety of objectives, including changing pain signals, activating muscle contractions, aiding tissue repair, and delivering pain relief medication through the skin (iontophoresis). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the most popular method of electrotherapy for neck pain. TENS transmits electrical pulses to the sensory nerves beneath the skin with the purpose of changing pain feelings into a more acceptable feeling.

• Ultrasound. After applying a cold gel to the sore or swollen area, a handheld device is gently rubbed against the skin, sending high-energy soundwaves beneath the surface and into the tissues. Ultrasound may provide a moderately warm sensation that relaxes muscles and decreases pain for some people.

There are numerous additional sorts of passive physical treatment modalities. The modalities that work best for a patient can be determined by a number of criteria, including the type of injury, pain levels, and personal choice.

Passive Physical Therapy's Potential Risks and Complications

When administered under the supervision of a competent medical expert, passive physical therapy is generally considered safe. Some potential hazards and consequences to be aware of are as follows:

• Skin deterioration It is possible to harm the skin if ice or heat is applied directly to it for an extended period of time or at an excessive temperature. It is recommended to use a layer of protection between the skin and a hot/cold pack, as well as to check the skin frequently throughout an application. Heat or cold should not be administered to areas of skin that have lost sensation owing to nerve loss or other medical diseases that impair nerve function, such as diabetes.

• The pain persists or intensifies. Pain is not always relieved by passive physical therapy. In some circumstances, such as after a massage, a patient may experience increased pain. The pain following a massage normally goes away within 24 hours. If not, the type of massage therapy used or the pressure used during the treatment may need to be adjusted momentarily.

• There is far too much passive physical therapy. While passive physical therapy may feel peaceful or provide immediate relief, in most situations, the goal of physical therapy for neck pain must finally focus on strengthening and expanding the neck. Performing more passive physical therapy instead of vigorous physical therapy may cause healing to be delayed.

A well-designed physical therapy program for neck pain has clearly defined development targets in terms of range of motion and pain reduction. If the objectives are not reached, the program must be revised.

Show also: Neck Pain Active Physical Therapy