Published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, the analysis synthesizes a decade of data from 2015 to 2025. The research team, led by experts including Dr. Jaynie Bjornaraa and Dr. Ron Goetzel, found that prioritizing conservative, evidence-based therapy over high-cost surgical interventions or interventional pain procedures leads to faster return-to-work timelines and lower disability rates.

Employers and health plans have historically relied on expensive, high-risk procedures that often exacerbate financial burdens. The study argues that these stakeholders are currently underutilizing physical and occupational therapy, despite clear evidence that early access to these services improves patient outcomes while simultaneously reducing reliance on imaging and long-term medication. By redesigning care pathways to favor these conservative models, organizations can address both the clinical and economic challenges posed by musculoskeletal conditions, fostering a more productive and sustainable workforce.