Rest

When a back or neck injury occurs, a certain amount of rest is necessary to allow pain and swelling to subside. The idea of an “injury” can take on many forms: trauma, exercise, sports, and an operation to name a few. The concept of rest does not necessarily mean to stay in bed. Sometimes this is necessary. However, rest in this context means to avoid strenuous activities that can aggravate the problem and cause more damage including pain, inflammation, and swelling to the injured area.

Rest needs to be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment program that allows gradual return to normal function and activities. Too much rest will cause muscle weakness, deconditioning, and loss of endurance. It doesn’t take long for physical function to deteriorate. It takes a long time to get it back. It is a fallacy to “stay in bed for three to four weeks” after a back injury or spine operation. Our bodies need activity, proper activity, to stimulate proper healing.

Rest can treat the following conditions:

Sprains and Strains