What it is
Physical medicine and rehabilitation is a medical specialty. Its doctors are often called physiatrists. They focus on the muscles, bones, joints, nerves and spine, and on helping people function as well as possible in everyday life.
The specialty includes rehabilitation, which is care aimed at restoring or improving abilities after an injury, surgery, illness or a long-term condition. It also includes musculoskeletal medicine, which deals with problems of the body's movement system.
Rather than looking at a single body part alone, a physiatrist tends to ask how a problem affects your walking, working, sleeping, caring for yourself and enjoying your life. This function-first view is what sets the specialty apart.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, rehabilitation care has been built around a team. A physical medicine doctor may work alongside physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses and other professionals.
Common tools have included exercise-based therapy, activity changes, bracing or assistive devices, and medications chosen by a licensed clinician. Some doctors in this field also perform procedures such as injections or nerve testing when they judge it appropriate after an evaluation.
Approaches vary from one clinician and one person to the next. What suits one person's situation may not suit another's, which is why an individual evaluation matters more than any general description.
How the right doctor may help
A first visit with a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor generally begins with a conversation about your history, your symptoms and your goals. The doctor may do a physical exam, review any prior imaging or records, and may suggest further testing. The right doctor may help you understand what is going on and what options exist, though no outcome can be promised.
Helpful questions to ask include: What do you think is causing my problem? What are my options, including more conservative ones? What are the risks and likely timeline for each? Who else will be on my care team? How will we measure progress in terms of things I care about, like walking or working?
You may also hear about injectable products, including amniotic or umbilical cord-based products, marketed for joint or pain concerns. Amniotic membrane is established as a wound covering and on the eye surface, but injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products for joints, pain or 'regeneration' are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate after an evaluation, so ask about a product's FDA status, tissue source, risks, alternatives and total cost, and check your insurance before any treatment. Providers.plus lists licensed providers you can explore.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect one another. Ongoing pain can disrupt sleep and mood, and stress or worry can make the body feel tighter and more sensitive. Recovery often goes better when the whole person is considered, not just the sore area.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, fits alongside their medical care. Others value talking with a licensed counselor, and Therapists.plus is one place to explore talk therapy. These are options to discuss with your doctor, not replacements for medical evaluation.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- This page is educational and is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan; licensed professionals should guide your care.
- Sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, trouble breathing or a serious injury can be emergencies: call 911.
- If you are in emotional crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).
- Be cautious with any product promising 'regeneration' or guaranteed results, and ask about FDA status, risks, alternatives and total cost first.
Doctors
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Frequently asked questions
What is physical medicine and rehabilitation?
Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) is a medical specialty focused on restoring and improving function after injury, illness or long-term conditions. Its doctors, called physiatrists, often treat the muscles, bones, joints, nerves and spine. They look at how a problem affects your daily life, not just the body part involved.
What does a physiatrist do?
A physiatrist is a doctor who evaluates problems affecting movement and function and helps coordinate care. They may examine you, order tests, recommend therapy, prescribe medications or perform certain procedures when appropriate. What they do depends on your situation and their clinical judgment.
When should I see a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor?
People often seek one out for recovery after injury or surgery, trouble with mobility, or pain that lingers. A primary care clinician may also refer you. If you are unsure, a licensed provider can help you decide whether this specialty fits your needs.
Is physical medicine and rehabilitation the same as physical therapy?
No. Physical therapy is a profession that delivers hands-on and exercise-based care, while PM&R is a medical specialty practiced by physicians. The two often work together, and a physiatrist may refer you to a physical therapist as part of your care.
Are amniotic injections FDA-approved for joint pain?
Generally no. Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products marketed for joint pain or 'regeneration' are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Amniotic membrane's established uses are as a wound covering and on the eye surface. Ask any provider about the product's FDA status, tissue source, risks, alternatives and total cost.
What should I bring to a first visit?
Bring a list of your symptoms, past injuries, medications, and any records or imaging you have. Write down your goals and questions, such as what you hope to do more easily. Also check with your insurance beforehand about coverage.
Educational resource. Amniotic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.