Let us try first… and save money!
Within the medical realm, there has been quite a bit of discussion regarding patients’ significant profit from the direct access to physical therapy in the last few weeks. Numerous great points are made in a Washington Post article “Physical Therapy vs Imaging” (see previous blog post). This article lists several ways in which patients can profit from seeing a physical therapist before going through various doctors offices.
If you were not yet aware, you can come to First Choice, first. This will save you time, money and potentially even surgery. Call us today for your evaluation!
Physical Therapy vs Imaging Study Hits the Washington Post
Research on the cost-savings of physical therapy vs advanced imaging has been making news in professional circles, and now it’s making an even more public splash.
On March 27, The Washington Post published an article summarizing the findings of research that compared health costs for patients with uncomplicated low back pain (LBP) who were referred to physical therapy with patients referred for advanced imaging. As reported in PT in Motion News, the results showed that physical therapy typically resulted in dramatically lower subsequent costs than a first referral for imaging. The original research article was published in the journal Health Services Research (abstract only available for free).
The Post article characterized the reasons for the differences as being “more likely found in the heads of patients and doctors than in anyone’s back.” Post reporter Lenny Bernstein writes that patients with uncomplicated first-time LBP can “pressure” physicians for a referral, and physicians may comply—sometimes with a referral for advanced imaging, sometimes for a referral to physical therapy.
The lower health care costs associated with physical therapy have a connection with how patients respond to physical therapy’s more proactive, patient-focused approach, according to the Post.
In summarizing comments from Julie M. Fritz, PT, PhD, FAPTA, the study’s lead author, the Post describes physical therapy as an approach that “focuses on educating patients about what might be causing their back pain, assuring them that most problems subside in time, and engaging them in their therapy.”
The study theorizes that as opposed to physical therapy, a referral for imaging early on can lead to a different patient attitude, one that often results in more testing, more physician visits, and greater use of medication. After 1 year, the imaging-first approach can result in average costs over 3 times higher than a physical therapy-first approach, according to the study.
Fritz is quoted in the article saying that “We think this is an area where our profession has something to offer, especially when it’s timed correctly,” adding that advanced imaging can be appropriate thing to do, but “just not early in the course of care for most patients.”
Available at the APTA Learning Center: pre-recorded CE on manipulation for LBP presented by study author Julie M. Fritz, PT, PhD, FAPTA; also “Manual therapy management of the lumbopelvic spine” presented by Josh Cleland, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, and Shane Koppenhaver, PT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT.
Myofascial Release
There is a growing trend among health care professionals and patients of physical therapy clinics that recognizes the effectiveness of manual therapy in treating variety of neuro-musculoskeletal conditions. Joint manipulation and soft tissue mobilization, hands- on or instrument assisted, form the backbone of majority of treatment plans in our clinic. One of the most utilized therapeutic modalities integrated into physical therapy treatment is myofascial release.
To understand the term “myofascial release”, it is crucial to explain, what the myofascia is. Prefix “myo” means muscle in Greek language, “fascia”, on the other hand, comes from Latin and it means a flat band or bandage . Fascia is the dense connective tissue composed of elastin and collagen fibers that surrounds and covers every muscle, nerve, blood vessel and organ in our body. Similar to yarn in a sweater, pull and damage in one area will strain distant areas and cause tension throughout fascial network. Healthy myofascial tissue has the ability to stretch and move without restriction. Due to poor posture, sedentary life style, emotional stress, inflammation, repetitive motions, surgical procedures, or traumas such as a fall or car accident, fascia scars and hardens. It loses its pliability, adheres to muscle, which leads to restricted range of motion of the neighboring joints and abnormal biomechanical functioning.
Myofascial release is an effective hands-on or instrument assisted technique that involves applying sustained pressure directly on the myofascial tissue. Initially, a therapist seeks autonomic or reflexive effects and gently stimulates sensory receptors in the skin and at the level of the subcutaneous fascia. This way a therapist desensitizes affected area and gains entry level to deeper structures with less potential for tissue microtrauma and exacerbation of pain. The next step of the intervention is mechanical change such as a stretch of the contracted muscle or superficial tissue rolling to mobilize adhesions. After freeing up the superficial restrictions, stronger pressure is applied to go through the “layers” until the deeper tissues are accessed. At times, forceful technique is required to free up longstanding restrictions. When optimal length and mobility of the soft tissue are established, therapy focuses on changing abnormal joint alignment and normalizing patient’s movement patterns.
The purpose of myofascial release is to break down scar tissue, loosen tightened fascia, reduce hypertonicity of the contracted muscle and decompress lesions such as nerve impingement. It is also intended to increase blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and facilitate tissue repair capacity. Although fascia and its corresponding muscle are the prime targets of the myofascial release, other structures, such as Achilles tendon or forearm common extensor tendon, are frequently treated with this technique.
Myofascial release therapy has been effectively utilized for relief from common problems such as neck and low back pain, headaches, plantar fasciitis, lateral epicondilitis (tennis elbow) to name just a few. It shortens and optimizes recovery from traumatic injury or surgery and improves performance in high level athletes. By targeting specific areas of restrictions, myofascial release therapy reduces pain, restores normal mobility and allows the patients to return to their normal functional capacity.
Maggie Garbiec, PTA
“My Back Hurts” — Really??
Do you have lower back pain that came out of nowhere? Can you not remember how it got there? You’ve been through X-Rays and MRIs and nothing shows up. You start to think you’re going crazy, right? Don’t worry, you’re not crazy. It could be a pelvic asymmetry. Pelvic asymmetries occur frequently and often mimic lower back pain. Often times, there are no real tender points. Usually, just aching and pain with certain activities. Your SI joints become maligned and cause aching in the muscles attached to the pelvis and even into the legs. Women are more likely to have SI problems than men due to the ability of the pelvis to move for childbirth. If you’re having persistent low back pain or pain into your hips, give First Choice a call to get it checked out.
Dr. Stephen Peaden, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Do the research
Life is full of choices. Marriage School CareerHealth. So how do you make a great decision? You do the research. You will find that Frist Choice Physical Therapy is the best choice for all your physical therapy needs.
- We hire the most Doctors of Physical Therapy.
- We have two convenient locations to serve you.
- Our award winning service and care is second to none.
- And with our expanded clinical hours we can conveniently see you when you need us.
Remember. It’s your choice. Make it count.
First Choice Physical Therapy
Happy New Year!
Thank you Bay County for making First Choice Physical Therapy your “First Choice” in Physical Therapy. We had a blessed 2014 and are looking forward to serving you again in 2015. We want to help you bring in the New Year with better health! If you have pain in any joint or muscle, then your body may be trying to tell you something. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy can evaluate your condition, diagnose the problem and explain the best way to relieve your pain. Call us today!
Have a Healthy and Happy New Year!
To Your Health,
Dr. Wade M. Rinehart
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Say it loud!
Laura M. wrote this short but awesome note.
If I had known I was going to see/feel results this soon I would not have avoided Physical Therapy when first ordered by my primary physician last year. I recommend it highly to others now.
Please be sure that you research all your options before making a decision regarding your health. In many cases you will find that physical therapy offers great relief from body aches and pains. Enough to possibly avoid surgery or to reduce dependency on pain medication.
Call us today to see if we can help you!
850-248-1600
October is National Physical Therapy Month
Benefits of Physical Therapy
Doctors of Physical Therapy are experts in improving mobility and motion, and pain-free movement is crucial to your quality of daily life, your ability to earn a living, your ability to pursue your favorite leisure activities, and so much more.
Improve Mobility & Motion
Movement can help you prevent obesity, which may be responsible for at least 18% of US adult deaths. Meanwhile, recent studies suggest that prolonged sitting can be unhealthy, and that walking just a little bit more each day can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Consistent movement is also vital to maintaining a healthy balance system, and that’s important because falls often lead to significant, costly injuries.
Doctors of Physical Therapy work with their patients and clients of all ages and abilities to expand, restore, and maintain motion.
Avoid Surgery and Prescription Drugs
Many people are referred to a Doctor of Physical Therapy in order to rehabilitate from a major medical trauma or surgery, but increasing research suggests that treatment by a physical therapist is often an equally effective – and cheaper – alternative to surgery and prescription drugs for numerous conditions ranging from back pain and degenerative disk disease to meniscal tears and knee osteoarthritis.
Although direct access laws vary by state and insurance plans differ, anyone in the United States can arrange a screening by a physical therapist without a physician’s referral. Florida is a direct access state which means you can walk right into a Physical Therapist office to get the treatment you deserve fast. Through individualized treatment plans designed by physical therapists, patients can sometimes achieve the same results without the expense and side effects of surgery and prescription medication.
Participate In Your Recovery
Doctors of Physical Therapy routinely work collaboratively with their patients. Treatment plans can be designed for the patient’s individual goals, challenges, and needs. Receiving treatment by a physical therapist is rarely a passive activity, and participating in your own recovery can be empowering. In many cases, patients develop an ongoing relationship with their physical therapist to maintain optimum health and movement abilities across the lifespan.
(The Above Excerpt Was Modified and Taken From Move Forward by APAT http://www.moveforwardpt.com/Benefits)
To your Health,Dr. Wade Rinehart, PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
First Choice Physical Therapy
Backpack Safety
School is back in session and backpacks are full. Kids are scrambling to get to class and parents are scrambling to make sure that they have all the right tools for a successful school year. Here are a few tips taken from the American Physical Therapy Associations website to help your student have less backpack induced back pain.
Wear both straps
Use of one strap causes one side of the body to bear the weight of the backpack. By wearing two shoulder straps, the weight of the backpack is better distributed.
Wear the backpack over the strongest mid-back muscles
Pay close attention to the way the backpack is positioned on the back. It should rest evenly in the middle of the back. Shoulder straps should be adjusted to allow the child to put on and take off the backpack without difficulty and allow free movement of the arms. Straps should not be too loose, and the backpack should not extend below the low back.
Lighten the load
Keep the load at 10-15% or less of the child’s bodyweight. Carry only those items that are required for the day. Organize the contents of the backpack by placing the heaviest items closest to the back. Some students have two sets of books so as not to have to carry the heavy books to and from school.
How Can our Doctors at First Choice Physical Therapy Help
A physical therapist can help you choose a proper backpack and fit it specifically to your child. Children come in all shapes and sizes, and some have physical limitations that require special adaptations.
Our Doctors of Physical Therapy can help improve posture problems, correct muscle imbalances, and treat pain that can result from improper backpack use. We can also design individualized fitness programs to help children get strong and stay strong—and carry their own loads!
For any injuries call 850-248-1600. Our Doctors of Physical Therapy can get you backpacking pain free.
Pain – No Pain. You choose.
Why do we have pain? A blonde goes into the doctor’s office and says, “Doctor I am in pain and need your help! “ The doctor responds and says, ”Show me where you hurt.” She commences to put her right finger on her left knee, her right hip and her head. The doctor replies, “I know what’s wrong with you…your finger is broken!”
Although pain can be very unpleasant it serves a very valuable purpose to signal us when something is wrong. It forces us into taking care of our bodies as we go about our day. Think of pain as a check engine light on your car. It is telling you that you had better stop the vehicle and take an assessment of what is wrong. If you can’t really tell what is causing the problem then what do you do? You take your vehicle into the mechanic.
Doctors of Physical Therapy are like mechanics for the body. We have the awesome privilege to be able to work on the most advanced technology ever created by God…the human body. When you are in pain and can’t quite put your finger on it ? , then you need to call First Choice Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment. Our highly skilled, knowledgeable and caring Doctors of Physical Therapy will give you an honest opinion as to what the problem might be. Our specialties include Physical Therapy spinal manipulation, headaches, TMJ, all sports injuries, auto injuries and all orthopedic surgical rehabilitation to include total joint replacements for the ankles, knees, hips and shoulders.
C.S. Lewis stated it best when he said “Pain insists upon being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”
To Your Health,
Wade M Rinehart PT, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy
No referral needed…
In our wonderful State of Florida, you can choose where you receive Physical Therapy services and do not need a referral from your physician? The Florida State Physical Therapy Practice Act allows patients to be seen by the Physical Therapist of their choice without the need of an order from any physician. There are some exceptions that are mandated by certain insurance carriers requiring a referral from a Primary Care Physician. This makes Physical Therapy easily accessible, efficient and affordable.
In a recent study, “Physical therapy for acute low back pain: associations with subsequent healthcare costs”, it was concluded that “Adherence to the recommendation for active care was associated with better clinical outcomes and decreased subsequent use of prescription medication, MRI, and injections. Improving adherence to this recommendation may present an opportunity to improve the cost effectiveness of care for acute low back pain.” There are many other studies that show the effectiveness of Physical Therapy interventions, but not all therapy clinics are created equal or employ the qualified individuals needed to get the quality outcomes. Bottom line…be a consumer of your own health care.
Dr. Wade Rinehart, PT, DPT
We Can’t Stress It Enough
The First thing you have to do after an injury or a surgery is to decide where you are going to go to get Physical Therapy. Your medical doctor or surgeon may suggest a few clinics. Be a consumer and research your choices thoroughly. We hope that your research will lead you to our Family at First Choice Physical Therapy. The State of Florida allows direct access which means you can come directly to our Doctors of Physical Therapy without a referral. Whichever path leads you to Physical Therapy, we know that there can be a level of anxiety when making that call to make an appointment. We want you to know that we understand your stress. That’s why we have designed our clinics with you in mind. Every aspect of your visits with First Choice Physical Therapy have been thought out and tailored to create a pleasant experience. This is our pledge to you, our valued, customer:
- A pleasant voice to talk to when you call to set up your appointments.
- A registration process designed to get you access to our Doctors of Physical Therapy on time every time.
- A kind and caring office staff committed to helping you navigate your insurance coverage and benefits.
- Highly trained and skilled Doctors of Physical Therapy who really care about getting you better.
You see, we don’t just say we care we show it every time you walk in the door. So take one last deep breath, hold it, release it slow and give us a call. Less stress starts here at First Choice Physical Therapy.