This is part four 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 .
Knee Pain – Conservative vs. Invasive Treatment
Knee pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily activities and overall quality of life. Two common treatments for knee pain include physical therapy and intra-articular glucocorticoid injections. While both treatments can be effective, physical therapy offers significant cost savings and financial benefits. In this article, we will explore why physical therapy is the more cost-effective option for knee pain relief.
Understanding Knee Pain and Treatment Options
Knee pain can result from various conditions, including osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, and meniscus tears. Treatment often involves reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing the patient’s quality of life. Intra-articular glucocorticoid injections provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation in the knee joint. Physical therapy, on the other hand, focuses on long-term pain management and functional improvement through exercises, manual therapy, and patient education.
- Out of Pocket Savings for Patients:
Lower Treatment Costs: According to research, the average cost of physical therapy for knee pain is significantly lower than the cost of multiple glucocorticoid injections. While an injection can cost around $500 per session, physical therapy sessions typically cost between $75 and $150. Over a course of treatment, this translates to substantial savings for patients.
Reduced Medication Expenses: Physical therapy helps patients manage pain without relying on medications, which can be costly and have potential side effects. By reducing the need for pain medications, patients save on prescription costs and avoid long-term dependency on drugs.
- Reduced Healthcare Costs:
Avoiding Surgery: Physical therapy can often prevent the need for invasive procedures like knee surgery. Surgeries are not only expensive but also come with additional costs for post-operative care and rehabilitation. By opting for physical therapy, some patients can avoid these high costs. NOTE: We are simply suggesting that in most cases, physical therapy be the first-line treatment.
Lower Hospital Visits: Patients who undergo physical therapy for knee pain are less likely to require hospital visits and emergency care compared to those who rely on injections alone. This reduction in hospital visits contributes to overall healthcare savings.
- Improved Productivity:
Faster Return to Work: Physical therapy focuses on improving mobility and function, allowing patients to return to their daily activities and work more quickly. In contrast, the temporary relief provided by injections may require repeated treatments, leading to more time off work.
Enhanced Work Performance: By addressing the underlying causes of knee pain and improving physical function, physical therapy helps patients perform better at work. This leads to increased productivity and potentially higher earnings.
- Prevention:
Long-Term Benefits: Physical therapy provides patients with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition and prevent future episodes of knee pain. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of recurring pain and the need for additional treatments, leading to long-term cost savings.
Improved Quality of Life: By focusing on overall health and well-being, physical therapy helps patients lead more active and fulfilling lives. This not only benefits their physical health but also contributes to mental and emotional well-being, reducing the need for further medical interventions.
Call to Action
If you or a loved one is experiencing knee pain, don’t wait to seek help.
At Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to providing high-quality care to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free. Our offices Visalia & Hanford treatment teams are ready to assist you. 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.
Conclusion
Choosing physical therapy over injections for knee pain is not only a wise health decision but also a smart financial choice. Physical therapy offers substantial cost savings, reduces the need for invasive procedures, and helps patients return to their daily activities more quickly. By opting for physical therapy, you can achieve long-term pain relief and improve your overall quality of life. Contact Bacci & Glinn Physical Therapy today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free future.
Reference
For more detailed information, please refer to the PDF report from the American Physical Therapy Association available at valueofpt.com.
