What Is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation?

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is the branch of medicine emphasizing the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders – particularly those of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems – that may produce temporary or permanent impairment. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is one of the 24 medical specialties certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Physiatry, as it is known, provides integrated care in the treatment of all neurological and musculoskeletal (nerve, joint, muscle and bone) injuries and diseases ranging from traumatic brain injury to lower back pain. The specialty focuses on the restoration of function to people with problems ranging from simple physical mobility issues to those with complex cognitive-social involvement.

What Is a Physiatrist?

A Physiatrist is a physician that specializes in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Physiatrists treat a wide range of problems from sore shoulders to spinal cord injuries. They see patients in all age groups and treat problems that touch upon all the major systems in the body. These specialists focus on restoring function to people.