Physiotherapy Interventions to Reduce Opioid Use After Orthopedic Surgery: A Controlled Cohort Study

Abstract

The management of postoperative pain is still a significant concern in orthopedic surgery, especially given the pervasive use of opioid analgesics and the potential for dependency.  In this study, patients undergoing orthopedic surgery had their pain outcomes and opioid usage reduced by structured physiotherapy sessions.  The study compared a routine postoperative care program with an upgraded physiotherapy program over a 14-day period using a controlled cohort design with 60 participants.  According to the findings, the intervention group's opioid use was dramatically reduced, and their pain scores decreased more quickly than those of the control group.  These results demonstrate how effective physical therapy can be as a non-pharmacological, safe method of promoting recovery and lowering opioid dependence.  The study emphasizes the significance of including physical therapy into postoperative pain management procedures in order to improve patient outcomes overall.