Osteopathic Physical Medicine (Physiatrist)
Osteopathy and Physiatry synchronize perfectly to treat ailments and impairments of the whole body. Osteopaths are fully licensed physicians with special training in the spine, musculoskeletal system and a whole-person approach to promote the body’s natural tendency toward health. A physiatrist specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), he/she evaluates and treats a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological injuries and physical impairments. The osteopathic physiatrist will collect a comprehensive history and conduct a thorough physical exam. He may utilize high-tech diagnostic modalities such as musculoskeletal ultrasound, electrodiagnostic nerve studies (EMGs), X-rays, CT scans and MRIs. Next, as the leader of a multidisciplinary team, the osteopathic physiatrist collaborates with the patient and formulates integrative treatment plan that may include therapy, interventions (ex injections, energy modalities, manipulations, taping and bracing), diet and lifestyle changes and medication adjustments to improve the patient’s symptoms, function and quality of life.