A slip and fall on icy streets can lead to various back injuries, including muscle strains, ligament sprains, herniated discs, or even fractures in severe cases. The Center For Spine Care and Mobility sees an increase in these cases during winter. The sudden impact can overstretch or tear the soft tissues, while the landing force may compress or misalign the spine.
Commonly affected structures include the lumbar spine (lower back), sacroiliac joints, and surrounding muscles such as the erector spinae and multifidus. The jarring motion can also irritate or compress spinal nerves, potentially causing sciatica, which radiates pain down one leg. These injuries often result in pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and inflammation.
Physical Therapy Approach
Physical therapy focuses on restoring function and alleviating pain through a structured, evidence-based plan. Initially, treatment may involve modalities such as heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Manual therapy, including myofascial release and joint mobilization, is often used to relieve tension and improve spinal alignment.
Specific exercises to strengthen the core, stabilize the spine, and improve flexibility are introduced gradually. Tools like resistance bands, balance boards, and therapeutic balls may be incorporated to enhance recovery. The length of care varies depending on the severity of the injury but typically ranges from 4–12 weeks, with 2–3 sessions per week initially, tapering off as the patient improves.
Chiropractic Care Approach
Chiropractic care aims to correct spinal misalignments and promote the body’s natural healing process. Treatment often begins with a thorough assessment, including X-rays if needed, to identify subluxations or misalignments. Our facility has digital radiograph technology, allowing us to review your films immediately and determine if a fracture is evident.
Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae, reduce nerve irritation, and restore mobility. Techniques such as the Diversified method, Thompson Drop Table, or Active Release Technique may be used based on patient needs. Additionally, chiropractors may incorporate soft tissue therapies like instrument-assisted techniques or trigger point therapy to address muscular tension. Recovery time mirrors physical therapy, with 6–10 sessions over a few weeks being common, though chronic or severe cases may require ongoing care or maintenance treatments.
Our patients have the unique opportunity to combine or integrate other rehabilitative treatments such as massage, acupuncture, physical therapy, or medical services to ensure an effective and timely road to recovery. Recover from winter slips with expert care. Schedule your personalized treatment plan with our NYC expert practitioners at CSC+M today and get back to living pain-free!
