Rehabilitation Doctors

Rehabilitation is a step-by-step process that helps people to recover. The goal of rehabilitation is to help people function as effectively as possible after a life-changing event. Rehabilitation doctors, also known as physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R physicians) or physiatrists, treat a wide variety of medical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, andtendons. By taking the whole body in to account, they are able to accurately pin point problems andenhance performance without surgery.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians have demanding education and training requirements. Almost all PM&R Physicians complete at least 4 years of under graduate school, 4 years of medical school, and, depending on their specialty, 3 to 8 years in internship and residency programs. Most applicants to medical school have at least a bachelor’s degree, and many have advanced degrees. Although no specific major is required, all students must complete under graduate work in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and English.

There are few types of rehabilitation services:

1. Amputee Rehabilitation
2. Paediatric Rehabilitation
3. Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
4. Stroke Rehabilitation
5. Mobility Rehabilitation (Inspecial situations)

A PM&R physician will thoroughly assess your condition, needs, and expectations and rule out any serious medical illnesses to develop a treatment plan. A clear understanding of your condition and limitations will help you and your PM&R physician to develop a treatment plan suited to your unique needs.

Rehabilitation may be needed if the person:

1. Has had a stroke or spinal injury
2. Has been injured
3. Has had major surgery
4. Has had a heart attack
5. Has had an illness, including a mental illness
6. Needs help to reduce or stop their use of alcohol or drugs
7. Has spent a long time in hospital.