Dr. Marko Featured in HuffPost! Her Go-To Tools for Easing Chronic Back Pain

We’re thrilled to share that Dr. Theresa Marko was recently featured as a physical therapy expert in HuffPost’s recent article, “These Items Can All Help Soothe Chronic Back Pain, According to Experts.” In the article, Dr. Marko shares two of her favorite tools for helping patients manage back pain at home: the foam roller and the Thera Cane.

Let’s dive into why these simple tools can make a big difference.

🌀 Foam Roller: For Mobility, Awareness, and Relief

Dr. Marko recommends using a high-density foam roller to stretch and mobilize the spine. One of her favorite ways to use it? Lay on the roller lengthwise with your arms stretched out in a “T” shape. This opens the chest, mobilizes the spine, and counters the effects of slouching — something most of us do without even realizing.

What it helps with:

• Stiffness in the mid and upper back

• Poor posture from desk work or prolonged sitting

• Muscle tension in the paraspinals and shoulders

• Reduced spinal mobility

Bonus: Foam rolling can also enhance body awareness, which plays a key role in improving posture and reducing habitual strain.

🎯 Thera Cane: Target Knots Like a Pro

The Thera Cane is another top pick from Dr. Marko, especially for managing trigger points and tight muscles. Its unique shape allows you to reach spots that are otherwise impossible to reach, like the upper back, shoulder blades, and base of the neck, without contorting your body or asking someone else for help.

What it helps with:

• Localized muscle knots

• Tension headaches from tight traps and neck muscles

• Trigger points that refer pain elsewhere

• Soreness after workouts or long days at a computer

Using the Thera Cane regularly can give you a sense of control over your own muscle health and empower you to treat discomfort before it becomes a bigger problem.

Why These Tools Matter

As Dr. Marko emphasized in the article, these products aren’t a substitute for professional care — but they can support your healing and enhance your physical therapy sessions when used correctly. Tools like the foam roller and Thera Cane help patients stay active, manage pain, and build better movement habits between visits.

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If you would like help with an exercise program to meet your needs, Marko Physical Therapy can help.

Make an appointment today with a physical therapist. We have in-person and telehealth appointments available.

Learn More: markophysicaltherapy.com

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