Healing after neck and back injury progresses through stages, and each stage has its own characteristics.
But the chemicals that promote healing also cause pain and promote swelling.
Mildisometric exercisemight be appropriate.
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Because activity is restricted at this point, your muscles may seem weak.
You will start off with focused, low-intensity exercises.
(This prime time may also include a bit of the later part of the subacute phase.)
Why should you care about doing exercises during this special 10-week period?
Because otherwise, you may permanently lose some of your ability to move and function in your daily life.
During this time, the scar tissue can be remodeled with exercise.
That is why getting exercise instruction from a physical therapist is crucial for healing.
An adjunct treatment that may also help during these phases is massage therapy.
Summary
Healing after neck and back injury progresses through stages.
The acute stage is marked by inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Gentle movement and anti-inflammatory medication may be used.
In the subacute phase, new connective tissue and blood vessels grow and inflammation decreases.
Gentle movement may progress to isometric and low-intensity exercises.
In the chronic stage, inflammation resolves and new fibers strengthen.
Prescribed exercises can help the new fibers lead to restored function.
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