The American College of Physicians (ACP) suggests non-drug therapies when it comes to lower back pain. This is based on an article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (Feb. 14, 2017) and it is noted that both patients and physicians must consider non drug therapies that are effective and efficient in the  treatment of sub-acute or acute lower back pain.

The therapies suggested typically include physical activity, modalities for pain control and spinal manipulation. In the event that any therapy involving drugs is needed, patients and physicians are encouraged to choose muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Professionals have also greatly emphasized that physical therapy can help and empower patients who experience back pain by arming them with the tools necessary to recover faster and safer. Experts find that the need for fast relief results in most physicians providing patients with pain prescription without  regard to active approach that could bring more effective and more cost-efficient care.

It is suggested for patients to discuss their pain needs with primary care physician. And, as lower back pain is one of the most common causes of visits of patients to physicians in the United States, patients should first be asking if physical therapy is the ideal plan that would work for them.

The evidence from ACP also goes on to emphasize that acetaminophen is not really effective when patients seek to improve their pain outcome. Steroids are not also effective when it comes to treating sub-acute and acute lower back pain.

Physicians must assure that their patients who suffer from sub-acute and acute low back pain will improve over time in any treatment followed. Unnecessary tests need to be avoided as well including other harmful drugs like narcotics. And yes, above all else, the ACP highly emphasizes that patients and physicians should select non-drug therapy.

 

Resources:

http://annals.org/aim/pages/annals-tip-sheet-february-14-2017

http://www.albanyherald.com/news/local/recommendations-potential-game-changer-in-physical-therapy/article_b9cbbae6-5125-56fa-afd6-7a7171f65789.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share


Published March 31, 2017 | Posted in Portsmouth PT Blog Posts.

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