What is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation or Physiatry?
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation or Physiatry is a medical specialty that is dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of conditions related to the nerves, bones, and muscles. Physiatry takes a holistic, multi-faceted, team-based approach to care that focuses on how a patient’s medical condition affects all aspects of their life including their mobility and activities of daily living. The goal of physiatry is to maximize physical functioning, greatly decrease or eliminate pain, and improve quality of life.
Per the American Academy of PM&R:
“Physiatrists are the essential medical experts in value-based evaluation, diagnosis, and management of neuromusculoskeletal and disabling conditions.”
“Physiatrists are indispensable leaders in directing rehabilitation and recovery, and in preventing injury and disease.”
“Physiatrists are vital in optimizing outcomes and function early and throughout the continuum of patient care.”
Who needs to see a physiatrist?
- You should seek treatment from a physiatrist if:
- You have experienced an injury that causes pain and/or impedes physical functioning.
- You have an illness, disability, or experienced treatment for an illness that has left you with limited physical functioning and pain.
- You are experiencing chronic back pain, neck pain, pain from a repetitive stress injury, or chronic pain from arthritis.
- You are recovering from surgery.
- You are contemplating surgery as a means to diminish chronic pain.
