Physical Medicine, also known as “Physiatry”, is a medical specialty that focuses on the non-surgical care of physical pain and disability. They are medical doctors who are certified as specialists in rehabilitation medicine by the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.

What is so special about these specialists? After completing medical school and obtaining an MD degree, they continue with their education four more years after which they complete extensive series of written and oral examinations. The purpose of this increased training and testing is to make sure that Physiatrists are well trained in the care musculoskeletal conditions. While many medical specialties are concerned with the treatment disease, Physiatrists take care an extra step by also focusing on functional problems and physical pain. These are the very issues that tend to impair the quality of our lives. This includes conditions like back and the inability to play sports and exercise without pain.

Physiatrists often work with a team of other health professionals in creating a comprehensive treatment plan including Doctors of Chiropractic and Physical Therapists.