Physical Therapy vs. Pain Management: Spine

Learning Objectives
Recognize mechanism of injury to the back & spine Review anatomy: normal function vs. compromised function from injury
Discuss pre-existing conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart conditions and how to differentiate between findings of acute injury vs. degenerative conditions (initial treating physician should take a good medical history)
Review basics of pain management and the physician specialties that focus on pain management and when to consider early pain management intervention
Discuss details of determining treatment and expectation
Explain impact of factors such as mental health concerns, malingering, and fear
Recognize the obstacles and difficulties in handling these complex cases