Phase I: Initial Intensive Care

GOAL:

• reduce pain
• restore normal daily activities
• reduce muscle spasms, joint swelling

MODALITIES:

• rest and ice or heat at home
• may also include:
- a period of time out of work and not exercising
- bracing and immobilization
- spinal manipulation and trigger point therapy
- passive modalities like ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation,
inter-segmental traction, and hydrotherapy

Phase II: Stabilization Care

GOAL:

• strengthen involved areas that have weakened over time
• continue to restore normal daily activites

MODALITIES:

• "core stabilization" exercise program
• aerobic conditioning
• continue with spinal manipulation and trigger point therapy

Phase III: Wellness Care

GOAL:

• maintain the progress made in first two phases of care

MODALITIES:

• spinal manipulation
• core stabilization
• aerobic conditioning