Recovery
Physical rehabilitation
Dr. Cary H. Rothenberg, D.C., Chiropractor. Professional license 15265498.
Physical rehabilitation aims to restore movement and function when pain or an injury limits your activity. It does not replace emergency care, or surgery when surgery is indicated. The plan is built at the evaluation, based on the exam, your history, and any imaging you bring.
Last updated: October 4, 2026.
Who is rehabilitation for?
- Back or neck pain that limits work or rest.
- Recovery after repeated strain or a mild injury.
- Stiffness or weakness that does not improve with rest alone.
- Follow-up after a spine or knee evaluation.
What can the plan include?
Depending on the case: therapeutic exercise, physical modalities, table decompression when indicated, posture guidance, and follow-up visits. The number of sessions is set in consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is physical therapy and what does it involve?
It is a discipline that assesses and treats problems with muscles, joints and movement. It can include therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, stretching and physical modalities, and it is used for sprains, muscle knots, back pain or rehabilitation after surgery.
What types of muscle injuries are there?
The most common are contusions (from a direct blow), muscle spasms or knots, strains (when the muscle is overstretched) and tears, which can be partial or complete. Severity depends on how many fibers are affected.
How is a muscle injury treated?
In the first few days it can help to protect the area, avoid what makes the pain worse and, if it feels good, use cold and compression. After that, movement is resumed gradually with guided exercise. If there is a large bruise, you cannot bear weight on or move the area, or you suspect a complete tear, seek medical care.
What kind of exercise is appropriate if I have spinal osteoporosis?
Low-impact activities such as walking are usually recommended, along with strength and balance exercises guided by a professional. Avoid sudden forward bending of the trunk and unsupervised lifting; the program is adapted to your case and to your treating doctor's guidance.
Want to know what's going on?
At the evaluation we review your case and explain your options. The plan is set in consultation.