Physiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They help people regain function after surgery, a stroke, or an injury and may also help people with issues such as controlling pain or regaining strength.
Physiatrists often lead a team of health professionals that may include physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and social workers, all of whom work together to improve a person's recovery from an illness, surgery, or injury. Physiatrists can further specialize in pain management or spinal cord injury.
Physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists can be board-certified through the Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, which is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
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