This is part two of five posts outlining the exceptional benefits and cost savings of seeing a physical therapist first for care of a variety of musculoskeletal, pelvic, and vascular conditions. The article can be found at valueofpt.com .
New Study From The American Physical Therapy Association Reveals Promising New Value
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. It occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand—the median nerve—is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist. While surgery is a widely recognized treatment for CTS, physical therapy is emerging as a highly effective and cost-efficient alternative. This article will explore the cost-saving benefits of physical therapy for CTS and why it should be your preferred treatment option.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects millions of people and is often caused by repetitive motions or conditions that put pressure on the median nerve. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm, which can significantly impact daily activities and work productivity. Without treatment, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage and muscle wasting in the hand.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Physical therapy offers several non-invasive treatments that can alleviate the symptoms of CTS and improve hand function. At Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy, we specialize in hands-on manual therapy, patient education, therapeutic exercise, and personalized guidance to help you recover from CTS without the need for surgery.
- Manual Therapy: Our physical therapists use hands-on techniques to mobilize and manipulate the wrist and hand. This helps to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall function of the affected area.
- Therapeutic Exercise: Tailored exercise programs are designed to strengthen the muscles around the wrist and hand, improve flexibility, and increase joint stability. These exercises can significantly reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with CTS.
- Patient Education: Understanding your condition and how to manage it is crucial. Our therapists provide valuable education on pain management techniques, lifestyle changes, and activity modifications to help you live better with CTS.
- Personalized Guidance: Every patient is unique, and our therapists create customized treatment plans to meet individual needs. This personalized approach ensures the most effective and efficient care possible.
- Ergonomics Advice: Often times simple modifications to repetitive tasks at home and/or work can be helpful to eliminate activities that increase inflammation of the median nerve. We spend extra time to discuss the specific activities that might be contributing to your pain & inflammation.
Economic Benefits of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy offers numerous economic advantages over surgical treatments, including lower costs and reduced recovery time.
- Cost-Effective Treatment: Studies have shown that physical therapy is a highly cost-effective treatment for CTS. According to research from the American Physical Therapy Association, the average cost of surgery for CTS can be upwards of $7,468, whereas physical therapy costs around $1,829 per treatment course. This significant difference in cost makes physical therapy an attractive option for many patients.
- Reduced Healthcare Costs: Physical therapy can lower overall healthcare costs by decreasing the need for surgery and reducing hospital visits. Patients who undergo physical therapy are less likely to need surgical intervention, which is not only costly but also requires a longer recovery period.
- Improved Productivity: By alleviating pain and improving hand function, physical therapy helps patients return to their daily activities and work more quickly. This reduces lost income and productivity associated with CTS. For example, patients receiving physical therapy reported fewer days off work and a quicker return to normal activities compared to those who underwent surgery.
- Prevention of Further Damage: Early intervention with physical therapy can prevent the progression of CTS, reducing the likelihood of future medical expenses related to advanced nerve damage. By addressing the root causes and symptoms early, physical therapy can save patients from the high costs associated with long-term treatments and potential surgeries.
Why Choose Our Physical Therapy Practice?
Choosing the right physical therapy group for CTS treatment is not just a smart economic decision but also a wise health choice. Here’s why you should consider us:
- Warm, caring, fun and friendly environment.
- We can get you in quickly.
- Our therapists are specialists in orthopedic care, have advanced degrees & doctoral training.
If you or a loved one is suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, don’t wait to seek help.
Call us today at (559) 733-2478 in Visalia or (559) 582-1027 in Hanford to schedule an appointment and learn more about how physical therapy can help you.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Nerve Damage Can Be Permanent – Contact Us Today!
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome doesn’t have to control your life. Our care team offers a cost-effective, non-invasive, and highly effective treatment option that can alleviate pain, improve hand function, and enhance your overall quality of life. Choose Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy for expert care and start your journey to recovery today.
Reference
For more detailed information, please refer to the PDF report from the American Physical Therapy Association available at valueofpt.com.
