Rumour: Early physical therapy is cost-effective for the treatment of low back pain.
Truth: This is true.
Low back pain is becoming an increasingly serious health issue, without around 2 to 3% of adults visiting their physician regarding lower back pain. Patients spend large amounts of money and have poor outcomes in pain management and even experience long-term disabilities.
American researchers conducted a study published in the journal Spine. The study determined the effect of early physical therapy on a group of patients with low back pain with respect to both outcome and cost. Some patients were given early physical therapy treatment and others were given regular treatment emphasizing physical activity. The study concluded that early physical therapy is a cost-effective treatment for low back pain.
To read more about this study, click here.
Reference
- Fritz JM, Kim M, Magel JS, Asche CV. Cost-Effectiveness of Primary Care Management With or Without Early Physical Therapy for Acute Low Back Pain: Economic Evaluation of a Randomized Clinical Trial. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2017;42(5):285-290. doi:10.1097/BRS.0000000000001729
