APTA Urges Consumers To See A Physical Therapist Before Pills For Pain Relief

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The American Physical Therapy Association Urges Consumers To See A

Physical Therapist Before Pills For Pain Relief

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=68228

Now that a study suggests that no evidence exists that the popular

nutritional supplement chondroitin may prevent or reduce pain for

arthritis, patients may wish to consider the benefits of physical

therapist intervention for pain relief from certain arthritic

conditions, says the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

The study, done by Swiss researchers at the University of Bern in

Switzerland, was published in today's ls of Internal Medicine.

Pain associated with certain degenerative diseases such as

osteoarthritis, can be reduced with physical therapist

intervention. " The physical therapist, in collaboration with the

patient and the patient's physician, can help the patient manage his

or her health over the long term, " explained APTA President R

Ward, PT, PhD.

For osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the cartilage and

bone, physical therapist intervention may include exercises for

strength, flexibility, range of motion, and the use of devices

designed to rest or support the joint, such as orthotics or splints.

Physical therapists work with individuals to prevent the loss of

mobility by developing fitness- and wellness-oriented programs for

healthier and more active lifestyles.

Many insurance policies also cover post-rehabilitation gym programs.

The American Physical Therapy Association (http://www.apta.org) is a

national professional organization representing more than 70,000

physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students.

Its goal is to foster advancements in physical therapy practice,

research, and education.

American Physical Therapy Association

http://www.apta.org