Cost of physical medicine and rehab doctor visit by state

What is a doctor of rehabilitation medicine?

A doctor of rehabilitation medicine is a doctor that specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They are also known as physiatrists. These doctors focus on treating the whole person instead of just one body area.

What does a physical medicine rehabilitation doctor do?

Physical medicine rehabilitation (PMR) doctors treat various medical conditions. Their focus is the treatment of conditions that cause disability or chronic conditions. They often work with a multidisciplinary team. PMR doctors provide tests and treatments for conditions that impact physical function.

Why should I see a PMR doctor?

You might need to see a physical medicine rehabilitation (PMR) doctor for the following:

• After an accident or an injury
• You are recovering from surgery
• You have a condition that impacts your physical activity
• You have chronic pain
• You're having problems with your physical mobility

Some medical conditions that a PMR doctor might treat include:

• Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid)
• Fibromyalgia
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Sciatica
• Pinched nerves
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Workplace or sports injuries
• Strokes

What can I expect at a physiatrist appointment?

At your physiatrist appointment, the doctor will ask about your medical history and problems. They’ll review your current medications and symptoms. If you’ve already had any testing or x-rays, the doctor will check those results and may order additional testing as well. A physical exam will be performed. Tests that might be performed include:

• Laboratory tests
• CT scans or MRIs
• Electromyography or EMG. This tests how nerves and muscles conduct impulses. 
• Analysis of how you walk and move
• Balance testing

After your condition and all testing is reviewed, the doctor will create a plan of care for treatment.

Is physiatry the same as pain management?

Physiatry is not the same as pain management. While both specialists treat painful processes, there are a few differences. Pain management specialists are focused on alleviating pain. They do this with medications and other methods like injections. 

Physiatrists work to manage pain but also focus on rehabilitation. The use of physical medicine, like physical therapy, is a big focus for physiatrists.

Is a physiatrist the same as a physical therapist?

Physiatrists are not the same as physical therapists. Physiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose patient conditions and prescribe treatment plans. Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who carry out the physical therapy portion of a treatment plan. Physical therapists do not prescribe medication and are not medical doctors.