What Are Physiatrists?
A physiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D.) or doctor of osteopathy (D.O.), certified as a specialist in physical and rehabilitation medicine. Physiatrists (pronounced fizz-ee-at-trists) are certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Goals Of A Physiatrist
The goal of the physiatrist is to help a patient restore function and overcome physical limitations. Physiatrists focus on patients dealing with:
- loss of function
- disability
- physical impairments which affect daily living
What Patients Are Treated By Physiatrists?
From private (outpatient) offices, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers, physiatrists treat:
Conditions which may be treated by a physiatrist include:
What Treatments Are Recommended Or Used By Physiatrists?
Physiatrists recommend and use non-surgical treatment options including:
- exercise
- physical therapy
- heat or ice
- electical stimulation
- medications
- steroid injections
- trigger point injections
- spinal epidurals
- assistive devices
Physiatrists: Work Alone Or As Part Of A Team?
Physiatrists can serve as coordinators of a team of health care professionals which may include a:
Working together, the team can help the patient achieve pain relief and make gradual improvements in physical function.
Related Resources
References: American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, aapmr.org; Physiatry 101, Arthritis Today, Nov-Dec 2005; Factsheet 11: Physiatrist, spinalcord.org
