MedRisk has released the 2017 Industry Trends Report, featuring the latest research on evidence-based physical therapy treatment and jurisdictional updates affecting musculoskeletal care in workers’ compensation.
According to the report, per a MedRisk news release, the past 5 years have brought a move toward conservative care, including physical therapy, with 34% fewer surgical cases for low back pain. The opioid epidemic has prompted the medical community to use alternate therapies, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now considers physical therapy the preferred first treatment for chronic pain.
There has also been a 29% reduction in post-op care due to pre-op education, often delivered by physical therapists.
“Our commitment to delivering optimal return-to-work outcomes keeps us focused on evidence-based research, industry trends and legislative updates,” says Mary O’Donoghue, chief clinical and product officer at King of Prussia, Pa-based MedRisk, in the release. “This report highlights meaningful changes we’ve seen in workers’ comp this year as we continue to serve our customers, patients and providers.”
[Source(s): MedRisk, Business Wire]
