Physical Therapy Consider the Benefits of Non-Invasive Treatments
Americans sustain a variety of injuries on an annual basis. Recent data shows that 50% of the adults within this country develop some type of persistent musculoskeletal injury that lasts over three months. It is estimated that approximately 31 million people within the United States suffer with some level of chronic low-back pain as well. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, Americans sustain more than five million sports-related injuries every year. Rather than opting for invasive procedures, many Americans choose to work with a physical therapist as well as their primary care physician or specialist.
In addition to addressing various conditions and injuries, it also costs considerably less to work with a physical therapist rather than have surgery or another type of invasive procedure. When someone has sustained an injury that causes them low-back pain, for example, the total medical costs to alleviate this condition can be significantly reduced. The results of a recent study showed that when patients initially received physical therapy for their low-back pain, the total costs were $2,736.23 less than for their counterparts.
Physical therapy has also been able to assist some people with osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis. This is also referred to as “wear and tear’ arthritis or as a degenerative joint disease. Hips, knees, and hands are the most common parts of the body that are affected by this condition.
There are a variety of physical therapy exercises that can potentially assist with reducing knee, low-back, and other types of pain. Furthermore, physical therapy also has the capacity to strengthen muscles and joints. In addition to these benefits, when people work with a physical therapist, they are usually able to improve their posture, mobility, range of motion, and overall well-being.
If you are experiencing any of the issues above, it’s important to speak with your physician and/or physical therapist. This is particularly important if you’re in constant physical pain along with other issues, such as decreased mobility and swelling. While many Americans will turn to exercise in order to improve or alleviate their symptoms, it’s important to receive additional guidance, supervision, and support from professionals. In this way, people will be engaged in the right types of exercise to address their individual condition.