Treating Complex Pain Conditions
The physical therapists at University of Utah Health's Pain Management Center are trained in treating complex pain conditions. The therapist will evaluate each patient to determine how the pain condition is affecting overall function and develop a plan of care to maximize that function.
This generally includes education in a home exercise program (HEP) and self management techniques (SMT). Both are designed to allow each patient to move more comfortably during his/her required daily activities allowing for improved activity tolerance and quality of life.
Techniques
Home Exercise Program
A home exercise program will typically include practice in:
- Coordinated breathing.
- Stretching/range of motion (ROM).
- Cardiovascular exercise.
- Trunk stabilization.
Self Management
Self management techniques include practice in:
- Posture/positioning.
- Body mechanics.
- Self massage/trigger point release.
- Activity pacing.
Additional Treatment Techniques
When appropriate, treatment may also include:
- Manual therapy techniques.
- Progressive strengthening.
- Aquatic therapy referral.
- Other physical therapy referral.
We use concepts from many different therapy techniques in developing our treatment programs including yoga, Feldenkrais, and myofascial release.