Back and Sacroiliac

You shouldn’t have to live with pain. The physical therapists at Life’s Work are specially trained in orthopedic manual physical therapy and offer research-based treatments for low back issues. Let’s work together to help you recover so you can get back to living.

Surgery is not your only option.

Low back pain is the most disabling orthopedic pain in the world. It can prevent you from exercising, working, and even enjoying social events. Sacroiliac joint pain (where your spine and pelvis connect) is also common. Chronic pain in either region can be frustrating and emotionally taxing, especially if you’ve had bad experiences with medical treatments in the past.

Many people start to feel like surgery is the only option—but it almost never is. At Life’s Work, our approach to treatment allows us to succeed when others fail, and without resorting to surgery.

How We Treat Low Back and Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Our therapists are extremely skilled at reducing and even eliminating chronic and complex pain. We look beyond surface level symptoms to identify and treat the true causes of your pain.

A thorough, precise physical assessment takes into account how your whole body is working as a system.
We don’t rely on cookie-cutter solutions. Together we’ll develop an individualized treatment plan for you based on your situation, lifestyle, and goals.

“I came to Life’s Work for a chronic injury that wouldn’t go away. My physical therapist was able to pinpoint the problem in just a few sessions, and gave me exercises to help me heal. I highly recommend Life’s Work!” Katrina

Ready to get started?

Call 503-295-2585 or contact us today to make an appointment.

Or read on to learn more about a few of the most common types of back and sacroiliac pain that we treat.

Low Back Pain

Did you know that 80% of us will suffer from low back pain at some point in life? Whether your pain is the result of an injury, ergonomic issue, poor posture, or something else, we can treat it with a combination of manual therapy, stabilization exercises, strengthening, and posture and activity changes.

“I had the most incredible experience at Life’s Work! My back no longer hurts. I feel great, and will use the exercises they taught me forever!” Kellie B.

Lumbar disc injuries

Soft “discs” act as cushions between your vertebrae. If one ruptures (causing a herniated disc) or bulges into your spinal canal, you may feel radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs. Some people also notice neurologic impairment with disc injuries.

Sciatica

Pain along the sciatic nerve can result from disc injuries and other spinal issues. Sciatica often feels like pain that radiates from your lower spine to your butt and down the back of your leg.

Post-surgical low back pain

Lower back pain and stiffness are common when recovering from certain surgeries. A physical therapist can help you recover and make sure the pain you’re feeling is normal.

Osteoarthritis

Degenerative disc and joint diseases are common as we get older. They occur when the protective tissue at the ends of your bones wears down over time. Pain, loss of flexibility, and stiffness in the morning are common symptoms.

Hypermobility problems

Hypermobility problems happen when the vertebrae in one area of your lumbar spine move too much with normal daily activity. You might feel pain or stiffness in your back or elsewhere in your body.

Thoracic pain and rib problems

We treat pain in many other areas too, including the mid back. This includes problems of the rib cage, such as inflamed cartilage, muscle pain, and more.

Back-related leg pain

Disc injuries, sciatica, and other back problems can cause leg pain. This usually happens when nerves in your back become compressed and inflamed, causing radiating pain in one or both legs.

Sprains and strains

Sports, car accidents, falls, and many other issues can cause injury to the ligaments, muscles, and tendons in your lower back, often resulting in significant pain.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain

Your sacroiliac (SI) joints connect your lower spine to both sides of your pelvis. Sacroiliac pain is especially common during and after pregnancy, after a fall, or with hypermobility disorders. Weak hips and core, or repetitive injury can also cause SI pain. Manual therapy, lifestyle changes, stabilization exercises, and strengthening exercises are very effective treatments.

“This is the single best healthcare experience I’ve had in Portland. My PT has a level of compassion I have honestly NEVER encountered with any healthcare professional.” Mikaela E.

Sprains and Strains

A car accident, fall, pregnancy, or childbirth can cause sprains and strains in the sacroiliac region. You might feel pain in your butt, lower back, or legs. Standing for a long time can worsen pain.

Pregnancy and postpartum pain

Pregnant women carry extra weight and usually walk differently, which puts stress on the SI joints. Also, these joints must loosen and stretch during childbirth, which sometimes causes injury.

Piriformis pain

Pain in the piriformis muscle or other parts of the butt can intensify when sitting, running, or climbing stairs. It can be difficult to locate the source of this kind of pain, which is why a detailed exam is so important.

Let's get better together.

Three Convenient Locations

Phone: 503-295-2585
Fax: 503-295-2587

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