Physiatrist, psychiatrist, physician, psychic – these words all look similar but have drastically different meanings. A physiatrist is a doctor who specializes in functional medicine and rehabilitation. Physiatry is a relatively new specialty, but the methods used are evidence-based. This guide will explain what physiatrists do, who they treat, and why you may want to work with one.
Definition of Physiatrist (Pain Management Doctor)
Physiatry, also known as Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), is a specialty focused on improving overall body function to boost each person’s quality of life. While many medical specialties involve specific systems, physiatry treats a diverse range of conditions.
Physiatrists may also be referred to as pain management, sports medicine, or functional medicine doctors. Physiatrists work with patients of all ages, but some may subspecialize in sports injury treatment, arthritis treatment, joint pain treatment, etc.
What Types of Pain Do Physiatrists Treat?
Physiatrists treat a broad range of conditions, injuries, and symptoms. Common treatment paths include:
- Procedural Pain Management
- Minimally-Invasive Surgeries and Injections
- Arthritis Treatment
- Joint Pain Treatment
- Chronic Pain Treatment, Such as High Impact Chronic Pain
- Nerve Blockers and Ablation Procedures
- Disability Assessments
- Spinal Pain Treatment
- Shoulder, Back, and Knee Pain Treatment
- Sacro-iliac (SI) Joint
- Sports Injury Treatment
- Solutions for Conditions Affecting the Nervous System or Musculoskeletal System
- And a Variety of Innovative Pain Care Solutions
Because physiatry is a broad-reaching specialty, some psychiatrists may offer more services than others. Search for a physiatrist near you that can accommodate your unique needs.
When to See a Physiatrist for Pain Treatment
Most patients seek help from a physiatrist when their pain becomes chronic (lasting three months or more). However, you do not have to wait long to schedule a consultation. The sooner you see a doctor, the sooner you can get a personalized pain care plan. Check out When to See a Pain Management Doctor to learn more.
Schedule a Judgment-Free Consultation for Personalized Pain Management
Macomb Pain Management offers functional medicine and procedural pain management from board-certified physiatrists. We are currently enrolling new patients, and we accept many forms of insurance. You’ll be matched with an experienced physiatrist who can target the root of your discomfort. Then, you’ll learn about the advanced treatment paths available to you.
Our physiatrist office is located at:
Macomb Pain Management
8152 25 Mile Rd Suite B
Shelby Township, MI 48316
