Is there evidence to support the practices done each day in your clinic? As physical therapy moves towards a more evidence-based practice, research to support the effectiveness of treatments is critical. Today’s podcast features Kurt Hegmann, M.D., MPH, Director of the Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health at the University of Utah and the Editor in Chief of the Practice Guidelines for the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM). The ACOEM recently released new medical treatment guidelines for treating hip and groin injuries and disorders.

The findings are a bit surprising. The research found insufficient evidence for efficacy for many of the practices used currently. More randomized and controlled trials are required to provide evidence for efficacy for hot and cold therapy and other common practices. However, the evidence of efficacy was found to support aerobic and strength exercises as well as programs provided to patients prior to hip replacement surgery. Tune in now to discover some new evidence-based practices the research revealed.