Background
Many people every year experience low back pain regardless of their age. Many times people will either attend physical therapy via direct access or be referred to physical therapy by their physician. Upon the initial evaluation, besides taking measurements, performing special tests, and coming to a conclusion of a diagnosis and treatment plan, the therapist will introduce you to specific exercises. These exercises are aimed to stretch any tight soft tissues and strengthen the weak musculature to address any muscle imbalances.
Short Term Comparison
A recent study has analyzed the adherence of patients to participating in physical therapy. This includes attending the therapist’s recommended sessions per week and performing the home exercise program. The study analyzed total visits, cost, and pain at the end of the plan of care. The patients who adhered to the therapy program had less total visits (~1.5), less total costs (~$167), and less pain (12.3%) when compared to the patients who did not adhere to the program (Fritz, 2008).
Long Term Comparison
The same study analyzed the long term effects following 1 year after therapy. These included receiving prescription pain medication, MRI’s, and epidural injections. The study revealed that those who adhered to the therapy program were ~10% less likely to receive prescription pain medication, two times less likely to receive MRI’s, and ~2.5 times less likely to receive epidural injections (Fritz, 2008).
What Does This Mean For You?
Following a therapist’s plan of care will ultimately cost you less, require fewer visits, and reduce pain. This includes attending the appropriate number of visits per week, actively participating in therapy, and performing the home exercises given on the days you are not at therapy.
How Do You Start?
If you are experiencing a recent onset of low back pain, contact the Respire PT Team today by phone at 703-671-1871 or click here to request an appointment with a Physical Therapist. Let us help you get back to your favorite activities without being slowed down by back pain.
References
- Fritz, Julie M. PhD, PT, ATC; Cleland, Joshua A. PhD, DPT, FAAOMPT; Speckman, Matthew; Brennan, Gerard P. PhD, PT; Hunter, Stephen J. MS, PT, OCS. Physical Therapy for Acute Low Back Pain: Associations With Subsequent Healthcare Costs. Spine 33(16):p 1800-1805, July 15, 2008. DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e31817bd853
Tags: pain free living, Low Back Pain, health blog, choosept, arlingtonva, alexandriava, Physical Therapy, Back Pain Relief, Respire Physical Therapy, fallschurchva, Back pain, movement freedom, Back pain prevention, ptworks, physical therapist
