The holiday season is a time for family, fun, and celebration, but for many, it can also bring on unwanted aches and pains. Between long drives, hours of cooking, hauling decorations, and even sleeping in unfamiliar guest beds, neck and back discomfort can quickly sneak in and dampen your holiday spirit.
At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, we often see patients this time of year dealing with tension, stiffness, and soreness that can easily be managed or even prevented with the right care and strategies.
You Have the Power to Choose – Why Farmingdale Physical Therapy East Stands Out
Many people don’t realize that a physical therapy prescription doesn’t lock you into a specific clinic. You’re in control, and where you go matters. At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, we combine expert care with a personalized approach that’s tailored to your unique recovery needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you heal faster, move better, and feel stronger. Choose a practice that truly partners with you on your journey, choose Farmingdale Physical Therapy East.
Why the Holidays Can Trigger Pain
The mix of stress, travel, and disrupted routines can take a real toll on your body. Here are a few common culprits behind neck and back pain during the holidays:
- Prolonged sitting: Whether you’re driving to visit family or sitting for a holiday movie marathon, too much sitting can tighten your hips and strain your lower back.
- Lifting and decorating: Reaching for boxes in the attic, carrying heavy shopping bags, or setting up decorations can all strain the spine and shoulders.
- Stress and tension: Holiday stress can cause your muscles, especially in the neck and shoulders, to tighten, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
The good news is that physical therapy offers safe, effective solutions for managing and preventing neck and back pain so you can fully enjoy the holidays.
A licensed physical therapist can:
- Identify the source of your pain: Through a personalized assessment, your PT can pinpoint whether your discomfort stems from posture, muscle imbalance, or repetitive strain.
- Relieve pain naturally: Targeted manual therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises can reduce inflammation and restore movement, without relying on pain medication.
- Improve posture and core strength: By building better support for your spine, PT can help you move more efficiently and reduce the risk of future pain.
- Teach proper lifting and movement techniques: Learning how to safely lift, bend, and twist during your daily activities makes a huge difference.
Stay Comfortable This Season
Before you travel or start decorating, take a few minutes each day to stretch your neck, shoulders, and lower back. Remember to stay active, maintain good posture, and take breaks when sitting for long periods. If discomfort does arise, don’t wait for it to worsen; early treatment can prevent chronic issues later on.
At Farmingdale Physical Therapy East, our goal is to help you move comfortably through every season. Whether you’re dealing with stiffness, soreness, or a flare-up of chronic pain, our team is here to create a personalized plan that helps you feel your best, so you can focus on what really matters this holiday season.Ready to move pain-free into the holidays? Schedule an appointment today with Farmingdale Physical Therapy East and keep your body healthy, strong, and comfortable all season long.