Rehab

Physicians recommend therapy before drugs

Rehab Regs, March 2, 2007

Patients with chronic pain, who are at risk for heart disease, are at a higher risk of suffering from a heart attack when prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

The AHA is recommending that physicians send patients at risk for heart disease to visit a physical therapist before prescribing pain relievers.

Physical therapy will benefit patients needing initial treatment for musculoskeletal symptoms caused by:

  • tendonitis/bursitis
  • degenerative joint problems
  • inflammatory joint problems.

Physical therapy and exercise helps in weight loss to reduce stress on joints, according to the AHA.

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