Stage 01 – Pain Management
Pain relief is often the first goal of patients visiting physiotherapy clinic. In FitZio Clinic we start with Stage 01-Pain Management which focuses on easing pain quickly, so our patients can feel comfortable and motivated to move forward in their recovery. We use a mix of Manual therapy and Therapeutic exercises designed to treat the real cause of pain, not just cover it up. While we use different modalities to manage pain, but our focus is on manual therapy and gentle therapeutic exercises. Because recent research shows that combination of both modalities and manual techniques is more effective, and sets the foundation for a lasting recovery (1).
How we manage Pain?
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is a key part of our pain management approach. This includes techniques like muscle release, joint mobilization, and gentle stretching all performed by our skilled therapists. According to recent research manual therapy reduces pain and helps loosen tight muscles or stiff joints that may be causing the problem. For example, a research study found that people with back and neck pain felt much better after manual therapy compared to just using machines like ultrasound (2). By working directly with muscles and joints, our therapists can help patients move more easily, which is the first step to long-term improvement.
Gentle Therapeutic Exercises
In addition to manual therapy, we believe that therapeutic exercises are essential. These exercises are gentle, easy-to-follow movements designed to target the specific area causing pain. Recent research showed that simple exercises can greatly reduce pain and improve mobility (3). Our therapists guide each patient to ensure exercises are done safely and effectively, even for those with little or no experience.
Research-Based Approach for Better Pain Relief
Combining manual therapy with therapeutic exercises is a proven method backed by recent studies. A clinical trial found that combining these two methods lead to better pain relief and faster recovery than using machines or exercises alone (4). At FitZio, we believe in treating the root cause of pain, not just the symptoms. Our goal is to help our patients feel better, move better, and avoid future pain. This first stage is the beginning of a journey through the FitZio Flow Concept, where we guide patients from pain relief to a stronger, healthier life.
References:
- Espí-López GV, Arnal-Gómez A, Balasch-Bernat M, Inglés M. Effectiveness of Manual Therapy Combined With Physical Therapy in Treatment of Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Systematic Review. J Chiropr Med. 2017 Jun;16(2):139-146
- Sharma A, Alahmari K, Ahmed I. Efficacy of Manual Therapy versusConventional Physical Therapy in Chronic Low Back Pain Due to Lumbar Spondylosis. A Pilot Study. Med Sci (Basel). 2015 Jun 26;3(3):55-63.
- De la Corte-Rodriguez H, Roman-Belmonte JM, Resino-Luis C, Madrid-Gonzalez J, Rodriguez-Merchan EC. The Role of Physical Exercise in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Best Medicine-A Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel). 2024 Jan 18;12(2):242.
- Bernal-Utrera C, Anarte-Lazo E, Gonzalez-Gerez JJ, Saavedra-Hernandez M, De-La-Barrera-Aranda E, Serrera-Figallo MA, Gonzalez-Martin M, Rodriguez-Blanco C. Effect of Combined Manual Therapy and Therapeutic Exercise Protocols on the Postural Stability of Patients with Non-Specific Chronic Neck Pain. A Secondary Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Med. 2021 Dec 24;11(1):84.