When to See a Physiatrist & What to Expect

A physiatrist, a medical doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, plays a crucial role in the healthcare system. These physicians focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating disabilities related to the brain, nerves, bones, and muscles. They adopt a holistic approach to patient care, considering how medical conditions impact all aspects of a patient’s life, including their roles at work, home, and in daily activities.

Physiatrists combine physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy with pain management techniques to help patients avoid surgery, maximize physical function, alleviate pain, promote independence, and enhance overall quality of life. With extensive training in medicine, biomechanics, musculoskeletal function, anatomy, and neuromuscular disorders, physiatrists are well-equipped to address a wide range of physical impairments and chronic pain issues, ultimately striving to improve their patients’ functional abilities and well-being. ¹

Physiatry Health Care Areas of Specialization

Physiatry offers a broad range of specializations, enabling physiatrists to cater to various patient needs and conditions. Specialties within this field include sports medicine, where physiatrists manage sports-related injuries; spinal cord injury rehabilitation, which focuses on recovery and functional improvement after spinal trauma; and chronic pain management, addressing long-term pain conditions.

Common medical issues physiatrists treat encompass a wide spectrum, such as back and neck pain, brain injuries, strokes, neuromuscular disorders, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, herniated discs, pinched nerves, sciatica, fibromyalgia, and work-related injuries. Additionally, they provide care for patients with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, cancer rehabilitation needs, and pelvic floor disorders. The most common conditions they treat as inpatient are stroke, post-joint replacement rehab, after-amputation, and other serious conditions.

Through their diverse expertise, physiatrists help patients improve physical functioning and enhance their quality of life without necessarily resorting to surgery. ^1,2

When is it Time to See a Physiatrist?

Knowing when to see a physiatrist can be important for addressing persistent pain, mobility issues, and recovery from severe injuries or surgeries. If you experience chronic pain or discomfort that does not improve with initial treatments, such as over-the-counter pain medications or physical therapy, it may be time to consult a physiatrist. Conditions like sciatica, fibromyalgia, or repetitive stress injuries are often within their realm of expertise, where they employ non-surgical treatments to alleviate pain and improve function.

Additionally, if you find yourself struggling with movement, mobility, or daily activities due to a stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or other neurological disorders, a physiatrist can help. These specialists focus on rehabilitation strategies that enhance physical functioning and quality of life, tailoring treatments to the specific needs of each patient. Physiatrists are also instrumental in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia, providing comprehensive care that addresses pain and physical limitations.

Recovery from surgery or severe injury is another critical time to seek a physiatrist’s expertise. They develop personalized rehabilitation plans that facilitate effective recovery, aiming to restore as much function as possible and prevent further complications. Often, referrals from other healthcare providers lead patients to physiatrists when conservative management of a condition is preferred over surgical options. Whether managing chronic pain, recovering from significant injuries, or improving daily functionality, physiatrists play a vital role in multidisciplinary patient care.^1,2

What to Expect During Your First Visit

During your first visit to a physiatrist, you can expect a thorough and comprehensive evaluation process. The initial consultation begins with a detailed review of your medical history and a discussion of your current symptoms and concerns. The physiatrist will perform a physical examination to assess your strength, sensation, reflexes, and range of motion. It’s important to wear comfortable clothes to this appointment, as the physiatrist will observe how you walk, bend, and twist to understand how your condition affects your daily activities. If necessary, they may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to get a clearer picture of your underlying issues.

Following this evaluation, the physiatrist will engage in a detailed discussion with you about your symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. This collaborative approach ensures that the course of treatment is tailored to your specific needs and preferences. The personalized treatment plan may include non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injection procedures like steroids or nerve blocks. The physiatrist might also suggest lifestyle modifications, specific exercises, and potentially the use of assistive devices to enhance your mobility and reduce pain.

Throughout this process, the physiatrist’s primary goals are to diagnose the problem accurately, decrease pain, and restore or optimize your functional abilities. They emphasize a patient-centered approach, allowing you to participate actively in shaping your treatment plan. If an initial treatment does not yield the desired results, your physiatrist will work with you to explore alternative therapies, ensuring a flexible and persistent approach to your care. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes. ^3,4

Getting the Right Treatment

Physiatrists play a vital role in managing pain and mobility issues, offering comprehensive, non-surgical treatments tailored to individual needs. Their expertise in physical medicine and rehabilitation can significantly enhance quality of life for those suffering from chronic conditions or recovering from injuries. If you experience persistent pain or difficulty with daily activities, seeking help from a physiatrist can lead to improved health and well-being, empowering you to regain independence and enjoy a better quality of life.