In today’s fast-paced world, pain is an all-too-common part of life. From back injuries and post-surgical discomfort to joint pain and arthritis, millions of Americans are living with conditions that impact their quality of life. For many, the first response is often a prescription bottle—quick, convenient, and seemingly effective. But at Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc., we believe there’s a better, safer, and more sustainable way to heal.
The overuse of prescription opioids has become a national crisis. What begins as short-term relief often turns into long-term dependence, with devastating consequences for physical and mental health. That’s why we offer a natural alternative—comprehensive physical therapy treatments that target the root causes of pain rather than just masking the symptoms.
At Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc., our highly skilled therapists specialize in evidence-based techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, trigger point dry needling, and pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation. We design individualized treatment plans that empower patients to take control of their healing journey—without the risk of addiction or harmful side effects.
If you’re tired of relying on medication and are looking for a lasting solution, our team is here to help. Read on to learn more about the dangers of opioid overuse and how physical therapy can lead you toward true recovery and long-term wellness.
The Hidden Dangers of Opioid Overuse and a Safer Alternative: Physical Therapy
Beyond extreme physical risk, over-reliance on prescription painkillers can have other detrimental effects on your health. Withdrawal symptoms can be harrowing. And while you’re still using them, opioids can lead to depression, which sets up a vicious cycle of self-medicating in order to feel better emotionally as well as physically. The Centers for Disease Control offers some frightening statistics from opioid overuse in 2011:
- Sales of prescription painkillers to pharmacies and providers had increased 300% since 1999
- In 2010, 12 million people ages 12 and older reported using prescription painkillers “non-medically”
- More than 40 people were dying each day from overdoses involving prescription opioids
Fortunately, as the APTA study concludes, there is a safer alternative to opioid use: physical therapy. If you have been struggling with pain or discomfort, contact Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc. today to find out how we can resolve your issues the natural way.
HOW PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN COUNTER THE PROBLEM
According to the aforementioned study, “affirms that physical therapist interventions are an essential component of the multidisciplinary undertaking that will be required to improve patient outcomes and alter the trajectory of [the opioid] crisis.” It’s important to get real about the reason people seek prescription painkillers in the first place – the pain. These patients are not to be condemned for seeking relief for injuries, arthritis and other degenerative conditions, or for post-surgical discomfort. However, at the same time, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that medications like Percocet, Vicodin, Opana, and OxyContin are extremely addictive.
Physical therapy, on the other hand, is extremely effective because it provides a multi-pronged attack to pain relief. Our physical therapists at Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc. are experts in manual techniques, exercise instruction, and trigger point dry needling. We identify the source of your pain and use our tools and expertise to help get you back to your life!
WHY PT OVER OPIOIDS?
As you may now understand, physical therapy plays a large role in natural and effective pain relief. As easy as it may be to pop a pill in your mouth and wait for the pain to dissipate, the results are short-lived – pain medication simply masks the pain while physical therapy works to resolve the issue altogether. You may be wondering, “Will physical therapy help my specific pain or condition?” The short answer is – yes. All physical therapy treatment plans are built around the needs of the individual, in order to best achieve pain relief as quickly as possible. When you arrive for your initial appointment, you will undergo a comprehensive exam that will determine the best methods of treatment for your needs. From there, your physical therapist will begin designing your treatment plan with two specific goals in mind: pain relief and improved function. While physical therapy has been known to treat a vast array of conditions, the APTA study outlines three common conditions that physical therapy has been proven to effectively treat:
- Low back pain. A review of more than 60 randomized controlled trials evaluating exercise therapy for adults with low back pain found that such treatment can decrease pain, improve function, and help people return to work. The American College of Physicians states that “non-pharmacologic interventions are considered first-line options in patients with chronic low back pain because fewer harms are associated with these types of therapies than with pharmacologic options.”
- Before and after surgery. A review of 35 randomized controlled studies with a total of nearly 3,000 patients found that in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, preoperative exercise and education led to significant reductions in pain, shorter lengths of stay postoperatively, and improvements in function.
- Arthritis. Studies have shown that therapeutic exercise programs can reduce pain and improve physical function among individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis.
With physical therapy treatments, pain no longer has to control your life. Instead of opting for potentially harmful drugs, give Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc. a call. Our dedicated physical therapists will provide you with the necessary treatment for getting you back to your normal life – so you can say goodbye to your pain. Get to the CAUSE of your problem for the SOURCE of your pain to be treated, not the symptoms. Source.
The Role of Physical Therapists in Long-Term Pain Management
Physical therapists are movement and recovery experts. They assess your unique condition, identify the root cause of your discomfort, and create a custom treatment plan. From mobility exercises to hands-on techniques, their holistic approach not only reduces pain but also strengthens your body to prevent future injuries—without a single pill.
Conclusion: A Healthier Path Forward
The opioid crisis has shown us the devastating impact that over-reliance on prescription painkillers can have—not only on individual lives but on families and entire communities. While opioids may offer temporary relief, they come at a steep price: addiction, withdrawal, emotional instability, and, in many tragic cases, overdose. The data is alarming, but the message is clear—there needs to be a shift toward safer, more sustainable solutions.
Physical therapy provides that safer path. It empowers patients to take control of their pain without falling into the trap of dependency. Instead of simply numbing symptoms, physical therapy gets to the root cause of discomfort, using proven techniques that restore mobility, strength, and quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, recovering from surgery, or managing arthritis, physical therapy offers a personalized, holistic approach designed to heal—not just to mask.
At Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc., our dedicated team of licensed professionals is here to guide you through that journey. We believe in treating the cause—not just the symptoms—so you can regain your independence, reduce your reliance on medication, and get back to living a fuller, more active life.
Say no to opioids and yes to real healing. If you’re struggling with pain or discomfort, don’t wait until it worsens. Contact Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc. today and discover how our natural, customized approach to care can help you reclaim your health—safely and effectively.
