If all patients get formal rehab right after lumbar disc surgery that would result in better outcomes and reduced overall costs right? Well, that makes sense but it turns out that such a question is very difficult to answer objectively. Turns out that cost-effectiveness studies require a very particular design and a lot of forethought. Keep in mind that papers like this provide our profession honest guidance, not hurtful criticism. THIS ARTICLE IS OPEN ACCESS SO FOLLOW THE LINK TO READ IT!

Early rehabilitation after lumbar disc surgery is not effective or cost-effective compared to no referral: a randomised trial and economic evaluation. Oosterhuis T, Ostelo RW, van Dongen JM1, Peul WC, de Boer MR, Bosmans JE, Vleggeert-Lankamp CL, Arts MP, van Tulder MW. J Physiother. 2017 Jul;63(3):144-153. doi: 10.1016/j.jphys.2017.05.016. Epub 2017 Jun 28.

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Music for PT Inquest: "The Science of Selling Yourself Short" by Less Than Jake Used by Permission

112 Cost-Effectiveness of Early Rehabilitation After Lumbar Disc Surgery