Back Pain Physical Therapy
One-on-one assessment and treatment for acute and chronic low back pain.
How does physical therapy help back pain?
Physical therapy for back pain starts with a movement-based assessment to find what is driving your pain, then uses targeted exercise, hands-on care and education so you can move confidently again. At Spinal Haven every session is one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and you leave with a plan you can manage yourself.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary, DPT
Lower Back Pain
We commonly help with:
- Disc Bulge
- Lifting
- Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Spondylolisthesis
- Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc
What to expect at Spinal Haven
Your first visit is a full one-on-one evaluation with Dr. Elizabeth Kingshott Cary. We combine the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) with the McKenzie Method® to understand how your body moves and what is driving your symptoms, then agree on a clear plan and timeline together.
Who is this for?
Active adults who want to get back to training, work, and everyday life — especially if previous care felt rushed or generic. We regularly see working professionals, active seniors and athletes & lifters.
Patients visit our Southfield clinic from Royal Oak, Clawson, Madison Heights, Birmingham, Berkley, Ferndale and Troy, and from across Metro Detroit. Get directions
Common questions
What happens during my initial evaluation?
Your therapist will discuss your symptoms and history, evaluate relevant movements, observe how your symptoms respond, and develop an individualized starting plan.
I've been told extension is bad for my back. Is it still safe to get an evaluation?
Absolutely. Many people are told to avoid certain movements, but those recommendations are not always appropriate for every individual. At Spinal Haven, we never assume one movement is right—or wrong—for everyone. During your evaluation, we'll carefully assess how your symptoms respond to different positions and movements to determine what is most appropriate for your specific condition. The assessment is designed to safely identify which movements may help, which should be modified, and which should be avoided, allowing us to create a personalized treatment plan based on your body's response rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
What if physical therapy has not helped me before?
Previous treatment does not necessarily mean every assessment or treatment approach will produce the same experience. A discovery call can help determine whether Spinal Haven’s mechanical, movement-based approach may be appropriate for you.
Do I have to commit before speaking with someone?
No. You can begin with a discovery call to discuss your symptoms and determine the most appropriate next step.
Further reading
- Low Back Pain — American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo)
- Clinical Practice Guidelines — American Physical Therapy Association
- Clinical Guidelines & Recommendations — American College of Physicians