A physiatrist, also known as a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) physician, is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide array of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Unlike surgeons, physiatrists focus on enhancing and restoring functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities.
The role of a physiatrist encompasses a holistic approach to patient care. They assess the impact of an injury or illness on a patient’s daily life and develop comprehensive rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs. This may involve coordinating with a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other healthcare professionals, to optimize recovery and functional outcomes.
Physiatrists treat a diverse range of conditions, such as musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., back pain, arthritis), neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, spinal cord injury), and chronic pain syndromes. They employ various non-surgical interventions, including physical therapy, medications, injections, and assistive devices, aiming to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
To become a physiatrist, one must complete medical school followed by a four-year residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Some may pursue further specialization through fellowships in areas like pain medicine, sports medicine, or spinal cord injury. This extensive training equips physiatrists with the expertise to address complex medical issues and guide patients toward achieving their highest possible level of function and independence.
Dr. Hoda Jazayeri is a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, focusing on the non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. With […]
