What is Physiatry?

Physiatry is one of the 26 officially recognized specialties of the American Board of Medical subspecialties. Physiatrists practice Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. This branch of medicine evaluates, diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal and neurologic injuries and conditions. Typical conditions evaluated include back and neck pain, sciatica, articular (joint) pain, sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and herniated disc conditions. Physiatrists also primarily manage patients in rehabilitation hospitals with conditions such as strokes, brain injury, hip and knee replacements, as well as debilitation. The goal of physiatric practice is to return the patient to their highest level of function with the use of conservative (non-surgical) treatment.

The physiatrist will frequently order x-rays, perform electrodiagnostic studies to evaluate or rule out a peripheral nerve injury, make diagnoses, prescribe physical therapy, order orthotics, and request lab tests if necessary. Typically physiatrists will also prescribe medication if appropriate.