More Self-Mobilization Options for Patients
This is the third part of Dr. Tony Rocklin's focus on mobilization with movement that patients can independently do at home. This discussion is excerpted from Tony's presentation at OPTA 2016. You can watch the first part of this discussion here, the second part here, and other excerpts here. Or listen to the full one-hour presentation here.
Dr. Rocklin 
is one of the leading advocates for the efficacy of conservative treatment for patients with hip osteoarthritis, regardless of whether they are preparing for, waiting for, or not candidates for hip replacement surgery. Physical therapy that combines education, manual therapy, and therapeutic exercise can both relieve the pain and improve joint mobility, enabling the patient to move more and increase their exercise tolerance. Used with patients preparing for or waiting for surgery, this "pre-habilitation" leaves them in better shape going into surgery and better prepared for the rehabilitation post-surgery. For patients who cannot or will not have the surgery, this approach enables them to return to activities and exercise and gives them a better quality of life. This approach is also in line with Surgeon General Vivik Murthy's current campaign to reduce the use of opiates in dealing with chronic pain. You can read more on his leadership in the fight against opiate addiction here.
While this therapy starts in a clinic, best practices include teaching patients how they can continue selected exercises and self-mobilization at home after discharge from the clinic. While periodic check-ins with their physical therapist to assess their condition are important, continuing the exercises and self-mobilization at home ensures that the cumulative benefits in pain relief and mobility gained in the clinic are not lost. With this approach, patients can stay active and be in better physical condition if and when they do go in for surgery. The result? Better patient outcomes and less cost to our healthcare system. Watch the video below.