Physical therapy is an effective form of treatment for some medical conditions, especially when pain is a regular symptom. If you’re experiencing discomfort, problems with movement or reduced functionality of a limb, then CareResource Hawaii in Honolulu recommends meeting with a physical therapist before scheduling surgery. In some cases, working with a therapist for an extended time can reduce symptoms more effectively than surgery.

If pain is disrupting your life, consider these three reasons to choose physical therapy over surgical intervention.

1. Less Invasive

While surgery requires doctors to make an incision and alter your body in some way, physical therapy offers a gradual, noninvasive approach. Your physical therapist will create an individualized care plan and meeting schedule that addresses both your symptoms and their underlying cause. Some therapists even offer a home health care plan, so you don’t have to worry about driving to a clinic.

2. Avoids Severe Complications

According to a 2015 study released by the Annals of Internal Medicine, researchers in Pennsylvania and Utah found physical therapy to be more successful than surgery in treating lumbar stenosis, a form of lower back pain. Invasive procedures sometimes result in complications like infection, which prolongs your surgery recovery and may even require a follow-up procedure.

3. Requires Fewer Treatments

Surgical procedures tend to cost more money than physical therapy, especially if you need to undergo additional procedures to treat recurring pain. Physical therapy treats pain management as an ongoing process, encouraging patients to set incremental goals for relief.

When pain impacts your quality of life, surgery isn’t your only option. Physical therapy is an effective way to treat your pain and strengthen your body to reduce your risk of recurrence. To learn more about how CareResource Hawaii can help you, call (808) 691-4663 or visit them online.