Benefits of Physical Therapy for Pain Management
November 10, 2020
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Karmen Weinzirl, PT
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By: Karmen Weinzirl - HRMC Physical Therapist & Director of Rehabilitation Services
When pain kicks in, the first place many of us go to is our medicine cabinets. However, medication only temporarily provides relief to pain; it generally is not going to stop the pain or cure it and it may become addictive. Fortunately, there is a safer approach that can be taken to help manage the pain – physical therapy at Huron Regional Medical Center.
Since 1999, Americans have been increasingly prescribed opioids, or painkillers, for chronic pain. There are many health concerns that are associated with long-term opioid use including nausea, feeling withdrawn, depression and overuse. Those who are prescribed opioids are 40 times more likely to become addicted to illegal drugs, such as heroin. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is urging Americans to choose safer treatment options, like physical therapy, to start living a pain-free life.
Each year, 50 percent of Americans 18 and older will develop a musculoskeletal injury that will last longer than three months. On average, there are 108 million people in the United States suffering from pain. Physical therapy is a safer approach to manage the pain. Generally, it takes only 7-10 treatments for pain to lessen with physical therapy. Physical therapy helps improve or restore physical function. The goal of physical therapy is to make daily tasks and activities easier. For example, it may be going up stairs, walking, or getting in and out of the vehicle.
Physical therapists tailor rehabilitation according to your specific needs and abilities. Physical therapists will work with your physician to determine the best course of treatment. Not only do therapists treat injuries, but they are also experts in movement and function to reduce or eliminate pain, can teach exercises and techniques for prevention of re-injury and can work to help you possibly avoid surgery.
It’s time to choose a safer alternative to pain management. It’s time to schedule an appointment with one of seven HRMC physical therapists who are qualified to help you live a pain-free life without the use of opioids. Let us help you get back to a healthier life. Schedule an appointment today by calling (605) 353-6253.
Resources: American Physical Therapy Assocation, Boneandjointburden.org, WebMD, CDC, Choo
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