Question 1

What is the difference between a physiatrist and a physical therapist?

Accepted Answer

A physiatrist is a physician (MD/DO) with 12+ years of medical training who diagnoses conditions, prescribes treatments, performs procedures, and leads rehabilitation teams. A physical therapist (PT) has a doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) and provides hands-on treatment including exercises, manual therapy, and modalities. Physiatrists diagnose and develop treatment plans while physical therapists execute the prescribed therapy. They work together as part of the rehabilitation team, with the physiatrist providing medical oversight.

Question 2

Do physiatrists perform surgery?

Accepted Answer

No, physiatrists are non-surgical specialists. They focus on restoring function through rehabilitation, medications, therapy prescriptions, and interventional procedures like injections and nerve blocks. If surgery is needed, a physiatrist will refer you to an appropriate surgeon (orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon) and often manages your rehabilitation before and after surgery. Many patients prefer to try conservative physiatric treatment before considering surgical options.

Question 3

What conditions can a physiatrist treat?

Accepted Answer

Physiatrists treat a wide range of conditions affecting function and causing pain or disability. Common conditions include stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, back and neck pain, sports injuries, arthritis, nerve disorders (carpal tunnel, sciatica), amputations, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and chronic pain syndromes. They also help patients recovering from surgery, cancer treatment, or critical illness regain function.

Question 4

What is an EMG and why might I need one?

Accepted Answer

An EMG (electromyography) combined with nerve conduction studies is a diagnostic test that evaluates how well your nerves and muscles are functioning. Physiatrists are experts in performing and interpreting these tests. You might need an EMG if you have numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain that could be caused by nerve damage, pinched nerves, or muscle disorders. The test helps identify the exact location and severity of nerve problems to guide treatment.

Question 5

How long does rehabilitation take?

Accepted Answer

Rehabilitation duration varies greatly depending on the condition and severity. A sports injury might require 6-12 weeks of treatment, while recovery from a severe stroke or spinal cord injury may involve months to years of ongoing rehabilitation. Your physiatrist will set realistic goals and timelines based on your specific situation, adjusting the plan as you progress. The goal is always to help you reach your maximum functional potential, whatever that may be.

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