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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.

Brad:  If you have low back pain, you are not alone.  Many people experience back pain in their lifetime. For example, at any given time, about 25% of people in the United States report having low back pain within the past 3 months. In most cases, this type of back pain is mild and disappears on its own. But, for some people, back pain can return or hang on, leading to a decrease in quality of life or even to disability. Physical therapists help people with low back pain improve or restore mobility and reduce their pain.

Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement.  This morning we will talk with Michelle McCann, Physical Therapist with Aultman Therapy Services about treatments for back pain and Aultman’s patient navigator who helps patients access all the services available at Aultman to care for your back and spine.

In this program you will learn about the following topics:

1. What physical therapy services are available at Aultman Therapy Services?

2. Discussion of back pain and why Michelle McCann specializes in back pain therapy.

3. When is it time to contact Aultman Therapy services for care?

4. How do you contact Aultman Therapy Services?

5. What does a physical therapy evaluation experience look like?

Thanks for listening today! We’d like to remind our listeners, if you suspect you have a medical issue, please contact your healthcare provider. Thanks to our sponsors Aultman Health Systems, Studio Arts & Glass and Jenior Appraisals and LIquidations. As always, we thank our listeners for joining us on Health Matters with the Medicine Center Pharmacy. Have a healthy week and we’ll see you again next Friday right here on News Talk 1480 WHBC.