Physical Therapists' Role in Solving the Opioid Epidemic

An estimated 116 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, at a cost of over $600 billion per year, or roughly $2000 per person per year. In this Viewpoint, the authors highlight the challenges of the current opioid epidemic and outline strategies that the physical therapy profession may adopt to be part of the solution. These strategies include facilitating and providing patient education, early access to physical therapy services, and the promotion of health, wellness, and prevention. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(5):349-353. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.0606.