After developing spine-related symptoms, whether caused by injury or an underlying condition, patients can reduce how intense symptoms are by temporarily changing the way they do daily activities. Also, in the early stages, carefully working around symptoms, versus working through them, can help support the healing process and reduce inflammation. These changes are usually only required for a short period of time. It is important to remain as active and engaged in life as possible, despite the presence of spine-related symptoms. Too much “babying” the body can lead to unnecessary deconditioning, maladaptive movement patterns and, most concerning, inappropriate disability.

Instructional strategies to establish appropriate activity modifications might include one-to-one discussions, handouts and pamphlets, videos, computer-assisted training, and hands-on demonstrations.