Doctors Don’t Want You to Know This About Physical Therapy
Discover why physical therapy is the key to lasting pain relief without medications or surgery.
By
Sep 8, 2025
NATIONWIDE - SEPTEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) — When it comes to pain relief, many people turn to their doctor, who often prescribes medication or recommends surgery. But there’s a well-kept secret that many doctors might not want you to know about: physical therapy can be an incredibly effective solution for chronic pain, including back and shoulder pain, without the need for invasive procedures or the risks associated with long-term medication use.
At Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, we believe in empowering patients with the knowledge that physical therapy is not just about getting better, it's about getting back to the life you love. And we’re here to explain why physical therapy could be the best option for you when dealing with persistent pain.
The Hidden Truth: Physical Therapy Over Medication
Many doctors, especially in the traditional healthcare system, are quick to prescribe pain medication as the go-to solution for pain management. While these medications can offer temporary relief, they do little to address the underlying issues causing the pain. More often than not, they come with side effects, dependency risks, and the possibility of masking the pain without fixing the root cause.
On the other hand, physical therapy works by identifying and addressing the source of your pain. Whether it’s muscle weakness, poor posture, or an underlying musculoskeletal issue, physical therapy aims to treat the condition from the inside out.
Dr. Sterling L. Carter, President & CEO of Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, says, “Physical therapy not only alleviates pain but also improves mobility and prevents future issues. It’s a comprehensive, sustainable approach to healing.”
Why Physical Therapy for Back and Shoulder Pain is a Game Changer
For individuals suffering from back or shoulder pain, the benefits of physical therapy are profound. At Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, we’ve seen first-hand how our Sterling Treatment Method, developed by Dr. Carter, helps patients achieve long-lasting relief.
Back and shoulder pain can stem from a variety of factors, poor posture, injury, muscle imbalance, or even stress. Traditional treatments often fail to address the root cause of these issues, while physical therapy is tailored to each individual’s specific condition. Through a detailed evaluation, we create a personalized plan that targets the muscles, joints, and movements contributing to the pain, allowing for more effective recovery.
Physical therapy is proven to help:

Strengthen muscles: By improving muscle strength, patients can reduce the strain on their joints and improve posture, reducing pain over time.
Improve flexibility: Regular physical therapy stretches and exercises help improve joint and muscle flexibility, preventing stiffness and discomfort.
Increase mobility: Therapy techniques focus on regaining movement range, ensuring patients can get back to their active lifestyle.
Our patients often report significant improvements in their quality of life, regaining the strength and mobility they lost due to pain.
A More Personalized Approach to Healing
At Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, we take a whole-person approach to recovery. We believe that true healing begins with understanding the patient’s unique needs and goals. We offer a thorough evaluation that includes assessing your medical history, movement patterns, and lifestyle goals, all of which contribute to a customized treatment plan.
Unlike conventional care, where the focus might be on quick fixes like medication or surgery, we focus on getting you better, long-term. Dr. Carter’s Sterling Treatment Method combines cutting-edge techniques with evidence-based practices, offering a proven pathway to recovery.
“Our goal is to help our patients reclaim their independence and vitality,” says Dr. Carter. “We do that by addressing the root cause of their pain and teaching them how to move, stretch, and strengthen their bodies for lasting results.”
The Risk-Free Option
If you're tired of relying on medications that only offer temporary relief or you’re concerned about the risks of surgery, physical therapy offers a non-invasive, safe, and effective solution. It's a way to help you recover naturally, without the side effects of painkillers or the risks associated with surgery.
Many patients who choose physical therapy experience long-term relief, with the added benefit of avoiding the pain, recovery time, and potential complications that come with surgery.
Why Choose Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness?

Experience: With over 25 years of experience in physical therapy, Dr. Sterling L. Carter leads a team of experts who understand the intricacies of musculoskeletal pain and recovery.
Personalized Care: Every patient receives a customized treatment plan designed specifically for their needs, ensuring a faster recovery.
Proven Results: Our patients experience measurable improvements in their condition, thanks to the effective techniques we use. Our approach is backed by research and years of experience.
Patient-Centered Approach: We pride ourselves on building strong, trusting relationships with our patients. Your health and comfort are our top priorities.
At Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, we don’t just treat symptoms; we provide solutions. We help you address the underlying issues contributing to your pain, giving you the tools you need to live a pain-free, active life.
If you’re struggling with back or shoulder pain, or if you’ve been relying on pain medication, it’s time to consider physical therapy. Our team is here to guide you through the recovery process and help you make lasting changes. Let us help you redefine your recovery and empower you to live the life you deserve.
For more information, visit our website or call us at 281-240-3140.
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