What does a Physiatrist treat?
P.M&R physicians evaluate and treat patients with short- or long-term physical and/or cognitive impairments and disabilities that result from musculoskeletal conditions (neck or back pain, or sports or work injuries), neurological conditions (spinal cord injury, brain injury, or stroke) or other medical conditions. Their aim is to reduce pain and improve performance without surgery.
How are you diagnosed?
Depending on the injury, illness, or disabling condition, some PM&R physicians may treat their patients using the following procedures/services: EMG/Nerve Conduction Studies, Ultrasound-guided procedures, Fluoroscopy guided procedures, Injections, Manual Medicine/Osteopathic Treatment.
Treatment:
Once you are diagnosed, your PM&R doctor will design a treatment plan tailored to your needs that you can carry outwit the help of YourDrs medical team. This team might include medical professionals such as neurologists, psychiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, and pain management physicians, and non-physician health professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, vocational counselors, psychologists, and social workers.
Should you see a doctor?
You should call YourDrs to see a Physiatrist if: You had an accident or you have an injury or chronic condition that has left you with pain or limited function; You're contemplating or recovering from surgery; You have an illness that has diminished your energy or ability to move easily; You're recovering from a stroke or other problems related to nerve damage; You have a repetitive stress injury, back problems or You have chronic pain from arthritis. Excess weight makes it hard to exercise or has caused health problems; You think you are too old to exercise; Life changes such as menopause or childbirth have created new challenges to your physical work.