Be S.M.A.R.T. – Choose PT First
PTs are musculoskeletal experts. But what does a musculoskeletal expert mean? Below, you’ll find a little more insight so you can be S.M.A.R.T. and choose PT first at the onsite of aches/pains, injury, or discomfort.
SAVE MONEY
Who doesn’t want to save money? Physical therapy is a cost-effective treatment designed to get you back on your feet quickly and with lasting results. On average, A musculoskeletal injury costs about $9,000 (specialists, imaging). You, the insured, may have to pay a portion of that. However, most insurance providers cover PT, which has been proven to reduce medical costs!
When diagnosing pain, imaging is often utilized, costing up to $3,000. However, PTs don’t need an MRI or X-ray to identify what is causing pain. We can learn much by listening to the patient and performing a thorough examination. Imaging isn’t necessarily helpful for revealing the source of your pain anyway.
MUSCULOSKELETAL EXPERTS
Your musculoskeletal system includes bones, cartilage, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues. All of these must work together to support movement and your body. PTs know all aspects of the musculoskeletal system and how it functions. PTs go through extensive education (Doctoral degree: 7+ years of higher education) and must stay updated with yearly courses. They are more than qualified to help you with any musculoskeletal concerns.
ACCESSIBLE
Let’s say you hurt your back while lifting a heavy box. It may be a week or two before you can see your doctor, and doctors often recommend physical therapy! Imagine what it would be like to have your problem assessed the same day and be able to begin the healing process immediately…but you can! This would eliminate wasted time hoping it will improve on its own, too! You can see a PT for a FREE consult the same day you call! And with nearly 40 locations, we are as accessible as possible.
RESOLUTION TO PROBLEM
By definition, physical therapists are musculoskeletal healthcare professionals (doctors) who use hands-on treatment, prescribed exercise, and education to help people reach their activity goals and improve their quality of life. PTs focus on your condition as well as the underlying cause of the pain, working to find a resolution to your ailment. Initially, treatments may involve pain-management techniques. However, the long-term goal is to address the underlying dysfunctions so the pain does not come back.
TRASH THE MEDS
The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics reported in January 2022 that doctors write enough pain-relieving prescriptions to cover 62.7% of Michigan residents. After surgery, some meds may be helpful, but when you start to use opioids, you run the risk of establishing a dependence on them, quickly leading to addiction. PT won’t have any of the negative effects of prescriptions or surgery. You’ll be doing physical exercises to strengthen your body along with hands-on treatment and a prescribed home program, which in many cases can solve your issues, keeping you away from drugs and the knife.
BE S.M.A.R.T. – CHOOSE PT FIRST!
As you can see, there are many reasons why it would be smart to choose PT first. According to the Centers for Disease Control, musculoskeletal pain is the second most common reason people go to the doctor (aside from the common cold), and it is the leading cause of disability for those 55 and older. By choosing physical therapy first, you can save time and money! Schedule your free assessment today!