Back Pain & Injury Prevention: What You Need to Know This Spring
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Insights from Aultman North Therapy Services on Health Matters Radio
Spring is here—and for many, that means tackling home projects, yard work, and long-overdue cleaning. But with this seasonal burst of activity comes a common problem: back injuries.
On this week’s Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy, we welcomed Allen Bresson, Physical Therapist, and Jeff Teeple, Physical Therapist Assistant from Aultman North Therapy Services to discuss how to prevent, recognize, and treat back injuries effectively.
Why Back Injuries Spike This Time of Year
Spring activities often involve:
Lifting heavy objects (mulch, furniture, storage bins)
Repetitive bending and twisting
Sudden increases in physical activity after a sedentary winter
These movements can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints—leading to acute or chronic back pain.
Common Types of Back Injuries
According to our guests, the most frequently seen issues include:
Muscle strains and sprains
Disc-related injuries (bulging or herniated discs)
Joint dysfunction or inflammation
Postural-related pain from improper lifting mechanics
How to Prevent Back Injuries
The good news: most back injuries are preventable with a few key habits.
Smart Movement Strategies
Lift with your legs—not your back
Keep objects close to your body
Avoid twisting while lifting
Break large tasks into smaller sessions
Year-Round Prevention
Maintain core strength and flexibility
Stay physically active consistently
Practice good posture (especially during desk work)
Warm up before strenuous activity
What to Do If You Injure Your Back
If you experience back pain:
Rest briefly, but avoid prolonged inactivity
Apply ice or heat depending on symptoms
Use gentle movement to prevent stiffness
Consider over-the-counter pain relief when appropriate
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Don’t ignore warning signs. Seek care if you experience:
Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
Pain radiating down the legs
Numbness, tingling, or weakness
Difficulty performing daily activities
Aultman Back & Spine Center: A Coordinated Approach
Aultman offers a streamlined, patient-centered pathway to care through their Back and Spine Center.
What Makes It Different
Clinical navigation to guide patients to the right care
Access to physical therapy, orthopedics, and neurology
Coordinated care to reduce delays and confusion
Getting Started
A simple phone call begins the process
Patients are assessed and directed to the most appropriate next step
Many patients can begin physical therapy quickly, often without long wait times
What to Expect from Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a central role in recovery.
First Visit Includes
Comprehensive evaluation
Movement and strength assessment
Personalized treatment plan
Common Treatments
Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises
Manual therapy techniques
Education on body mechanics and injury prevention
Do You Need a Doctor’s Order?
In many cases, you can start physical therapy without a physician referral, making it easier to begin treatment early and avoid worsening symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Back injuries are common but preventable
Proper lifting and consistent activity are critical
Early intervention leads to better outcomes
Coordinated care models like Aultman’s help patients navigate treatment efficiently
Listen to the Full Episode
Catch this episode of Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy on your favorite podcast platform and learn more about keeping your back healthy all year long.
Need Help Managing Pain or Recovery?
At Medicine Center Pharmacy, we work alongside providers like Aultman Therapy Services to support your care with:
Customized pain management solutions
Compounded medications tailored to your needs
Guidance on safe and effective therapy options
Final Thought
Back pain can slow you down—but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to. Stay proactive, stay informed, and take care of your body so you can enjoy everything the season has to offer.