Tips for Preventing Surgery

Injuries or progressive worsening of pain over time may ultimately bring up the conversation of surgery to relieve the symptoms. Not only is surgery itself a big decision, but people often have multiple variables to weigh in making this stressful decision. This may include time off work, lost wages, or arranging a friend or family member to temporarily assist you during the early phase of post-op recovery. However, going under the knife isn’t always the answer. I want to highlight some tips and alternative avenues to achieve pain relief and getting back to your normal self.
 1. Ask Questions. When you’re consulting with a physician or orthopedist, ask about treatment options and get informed about all possible roads to recovery. Having a conversation about treatment outcomes can only give you more knowledge about which option works best for you. If you have been told surgery is the only way and you’re not satisfied or just wish to have more information before making a decision, seek out a second opinion. Another doctor may be aware of alternative treatments that could work for you.
2.  Seek Conservative Care. Physical therapy has been shown to be as effective or produce similar outcomes for some conditions compared to surgery. Back pain from spinal stenosis and knee pain due to arthritis are just a few examples of conditions that therapy can be successful in treating. Fortunately, law changes over the previous few years have allowed patients direct access to physical therapy. Meaning you may no longer need a referral from a medical doctor to receive therapy, only approval by your insurance company. Direct access has been proven to speed recovery and save time and money. Instead of waiting several days to get into your primary care doctor, or likely even longer if waiting for an appointment with an orthopedist, a visit with a physical therapist can be accomplished within the same or next day. A simple call to your insurance or your local therapy clinic will tell you whether or not your insurance covers services without a referral.
3.  Don’t Put Off Your Pain. Many patients may suffer from an injury such as a rolled ankle or wake up with pain in their neck or back and put off treatment thinking it will get better on its own. Unfortunately, things may continue to linger or worsen over time and develop into chronic pain. Research hasproven a better prognosis for outcomes when early treatment in achieved. For example, getting formal treatment within 16 days of developing low back pain has led to better outcomes. If symptoms haven’t improved within a few days, make a decision for your health and seek a consult from a physical therapist.
4.  Be Proactive. Whether you have aches and pains or wish to continue being pain-free, be proactive in creating a healthy lifestyle. This includes getting into a regular exercise routine a couple times a week, eating healthier, or altering your lifestyle to reduce unhealthy habits such as smoking. Your body needs movement to stay healthy and even something as simple as a 30-minute walk five times a week has shown improvement in bone, joint, and heart health. If you have pre-existing health conditions, speak to a medical professional prior to initiating a program to determine both safe and appropriate exercise.

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​Derrick White PT, DPT​

​ To Schedule An Appointment
Call 304.525.4445

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