I hurt my back while on the job. I never missed a day of work, but it’s been an uphill battle because of the pain. The doctor wants me to see a physical therapist for an exercise program. I’m having trouble fitting this into my schedule. How often do I need to go?

You will be able to benefit from a twice-weekly exercise program. This will include stretching, strengthening, and endurance. The therapist can also help you learn how to stand, move, and lift safely at home and at work.

A recent study reports that exercise twice-weekly is just as good as three times a week. This was tested on adults with moderate back pain lasting more than three months. Each patient was still working, but had some limitations because of pain.

Exercise helps patients overcome their fear of reinjury. It also increases fitness and strength of the muscles. These two things combined together result in a return to more normal movement.