APTA has new tools and resources for members to advance the use of person-centered care using multidisciplinary approaches that include physical therapy and other safe nonpharmacological approaches to pain management, consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.
- White Paper: Beyond Opioids: How Physical Therapy Can Transform Pain Management to Improve Health (.pdf)
This paper reviews how opioid-centric solutions to dealing with pain has led to widespread misuse and addition. The paper highlights the valuable role of physical therapy in improving patient outcomes and altering the trajectory of the existing public health crisis.
- Position Paper for Federal Advocacy (.pdf)
APTA believes that an integrated team approach, early access to conservative care, and education for primary care providers and the general public must be part of a comprehensive strategy to combat the opioid crisis.
- Panel Discussion: Beyond Opioids
APTA convened a panel featuring a patient, health care providers, and representatives from Congress, the CDC, and the National Business Group on Health to discuss the opioid epidemic and the benefits of collaborative, conservative care for pain management.
- Providing a Safe Alternative to Opioids: Research on Pain Management (.pdf)
Research validates that early access to physical therapy can prevent acute pain from becoming chronic pain. The treatment of pain often requires an integrated, multidisciplinary approach due to the many variables that may contribute to a patient’s perception of pain and response to treatment.
Patient Care
APTA Leading the Way
In addition to the above, APTA has provided input into the development of the following resources:
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