Physiotherapy Vs Surgery
September 21st, 2018
New research suggests that to treat osteoarthritis with surgery, may not be necessary as Physio is just as effective!
1 in 10 people is affected by osteoarthritis, which causes inflammation of the joints, more common in the knee, causing low mobility.
One of the most common treatments for this is Arthroscopic surgery, in which small incision is made in the knee to remove cartilage fragments and smooth the joint surfaces.
But a study carried out in London and Canada, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, suggests that such operations are a waste of money!
Between 1999 and 2007 178 adults were given physiotherapy and painkillers such as ibuprofen. Around half also underwent orthopaedic surgery at the Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic at London Health Sciences Centre.
The participants reported similar improvements in joint pain, stiffness, and mobility, but surgery provided no extra benefit. These were tested at various stages afterwards in both groups.
“This study provides definitive evidence that arthroscopic surgery provides no additional therapeutic value when added to physical therapy and medication for patients with moderate osteoarthritis of the knee,” said the co-author of the study, Dr. Brian Feagan, clinical trials director at the Robarts Research Institute at the University of Western Ontario.
A similar study which was carried out in 2002, found very similar results, sadly this was broadly dismissed by the medical community.
But in the latest study the researchers concluded “based on the available evidence, we believe that the resources currently allocated towards arthroscopic surgery for osteoarthritis would be better directed elsewhere.”
At Leeds Back Pain Centre, we find that the majority of our patients find permanent relief after a course of physiotherapy and we have even dealt with patients that have had surgery but are still finding pain.
We tend to look at the whole body and confer with our fellow practitioners, for example, podiatrists and chiropractors to get YOU the best diagnosis and treatment.
To book an assessment with of our expert physiotherapist call 0113 2900 310 or email thelawrenceclinic@btconnect.com
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