FAQ’s – Your Physiatry Questions, Answered

PM&R is a medical specialty focused on enhancing and restoring functional ability and quality of life to people with physical impairments or disabilities. Physiatrists treat a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.

A physiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in PM&R. They diagnose and treat conditions that affect movement and function, helping patients regain independence—without performing surgery.

No. Physiatrists do not perform surgery. They focus on non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, ultrasound-guided injections, and rehabilitation strategies.

Physiatrists treat a broad spectrum of conditions including spinal cord injuries, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, chronic pain, musculoskeletal injuries, sports injuries, and nerve disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome or sciatica.

A physiatrist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and designs treatment plans. A physical therapist is a licensed healthcare professional who carries out those treatment plans through exercise, manual therapy, and other interventions.

Treatments may include physical and occupational therapy referrals, speech therapy coordination, pain management, bracing and orthotics, medications, ultrasound-guided injections, EMG/NCS studies, and assistive device prescriptions.

• It depends on your insurance. Some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care doctor, while others allow direct access.

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The physiatrist will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order imaging or other diagnostic tests. Then, they’ll create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.

It varies based on your diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and response to therapy. Some people need a few weeks; others may benefit from long-term follow-up and gradual progress tracking.