Physical Therapy: Treating the Cause, Not Just the Symptoms of Pain

Medical professionals are programmed to treat the immediate issue, not necessarily the root of what’s causing the issue.  This is great that the immediate problem is resolved, but not great for long term.  It is like taking the batteries out of a smoke detector instead of trying to find the fire.  As Physical Therapists, we do the complete opposite.  Our team’s main goal is to not just get you out of pain but also figure out what caused the pain.  Maybe it was an old injury or more often than not, it’s how you do things throughout your day (how you sit when you drive or how you pick up the laundry basket).  Everything you do to your body has a reaction.  Sometimes those “reactions” are immediate and others develop and are created overtime.  It’s much easier to take the pill and get rid of the pain right away, trust us, we get it!  But there’s more to it…

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE PHYSICAL THERAPY OVER PRESCRIPTION PAIN KILLERS 
Physical therapy treats the cause of pain, more often than not leaving patients stronger and more able to enjoy life and function fully. In stark contrast, pain relievers treat only the symptoms – and can leave patients dependent or addicted.  The American Physical Therapy Association put it best, “No one wants to live in pain. But no one should put their health at risk in an effort to be pain free.  Since 1999, Americans have increasingly been prescribed opioids—painkillers like Vicodin, OxyContin, Opana, and methodone, and combination drugs like Percocet.  In some situations, dosed appropriately, prescription opioids are an appropriate part of medical treatment. However, opioid risks include depression, overdose, and addiction, plus withdrawal symptoms when stopping use. And people addicted to prescription opioids are 40 times more likely to become addicted to heroin.

PHYSICAL THERAPY IS THE SMART ALTERNATIVE TO OPIOIDS
More than 40 people die every day from overdoses involving prescription opioids. At least half of opioid overdose deaths involve a prescription opioid.

Information provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. To learn more about the CDC click here.

SO WHAT DO YOU DO?

If you or your loved one is in a lot of pain and taking opioids, it is okay.  There is a time and a place for all things.  The cure to pain is balance and we can help create that balance with you.  Physical Therapy is completely individualized and your case will only be yours.  Know that you’re not alone and pain does not have to mean your life is over!  Let us help you!