Emergency department physical therapy: An important tool for emergency physicians

A collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to medical care has become increasingly commonplace in modern medicine. Often part of this team, especially the inpatient setting, are physical therapists (PT). PT education and training provide useful insight into techniques improve patients’ functionality reduce pain. They often patients with on how participate their own treatment equip them tools for self-care outside hospital or clinic setting. It will come as no surprise practicing emergency physician (EP) annual number who seek musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs) U.S. departments (ED) exceeds 11 million annually.1 While many EPs may feel options these cases limited orthopedic referral either prescription over-the-counter medications, evaluation serves a valuable addition management MSKDs. Gagnon et al add current body evidence regarding effectiveness physiotherapy ED respect MSKD. This randomized, controlled trial found that received evaluations had lower pain severity scores, functional interference fewer return visits used less medications. These positive, patient-centered outcomes should serve remind EP utility Improved is primary goal when addressing pain, ideally be achieved without use potentially addictive Early outpatient participation MSKDs already been shown associated both reduced odds receiving an opioid at 1 year after patient's index encounter3 decreased risk long-term use.4 One observational study showed while majority (55%) people sample low back presenting referral, only small portion (19%) participated PT.3 could way “capture” greater opioid-sparing treatment. ED-dedicated programs rise,5 there hospitals currently have service available. The presented by al. provides springboard additional research benefits ED-based bolsters argument presence. At present, do not available consider referrals MSKDs, because compelling. Some argue within scope medicine responsibility physician. path option some, established care. An ED, direct from seen another tool prevalent disease carries potential disability. reduces disability, health utilization, harm addiction appealing empathic healer. significant benefit reduction well intervention can outcomes. routinely most EDs, appreciate effect outcomes, advocate implementation programs, and, where such unavailable, all