Alternatives to surgery

Try physical therapy before surgery

While surgery can be the best course of treatment for certain diagnoses, there is evidence to indicate that physical therapists can offer an alternative. Considering conservative options to surgery is a hallmark of good care. Physical therapy is one of these options for many people.

When there is a need for surgery, physical therapists can enhance the outcome both before and after surgery. Additionally, for those individuals whose health conditions prevent surgery from being an option, physical therapists can be invaluable in helping them improve or maintain the quality of their lives.

Research shows that physical therapy, combined with comprehensive medical management, is just as effective as surgery when it comes to relieving the pain and stiffness of moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the knee. Pursuing an exercise program designed by a physical therapist can be one of the best protections from injury and surgery.

For more information on the many ways in which a physical therapist can help you improve your mobility you can visit the following sites:

• Avoid Surgery
• Repeat surgery after lumbar decompression for herniated disc: the quality implications of hospital and surgeon variation