What Does a Physiatrist Do?
A physiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with musculoskeletal, neurological, and pain-related conditions. They use a range of diagnostic tests, including electromyography and nerve conduction studies, to determine the underlying cause of their patient’s symptoms.
Physiatrists prescribe medications, recommend therapies like physical and occupational therapy, and perform minimally invasive procedures like injections to manage pain and improve overall function. Physiatrists also collaborate with other healthcare practitioners, such as orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, and pain specialists, to create personalized treatment plans for their patients.
Why See a Private Physiatrist?
Seeing a private physiatrist is essential for early diagnosis and management of symptoms related to musculoskeletal, neurological, and pain-related conditions. As we age, we are more prone to these conditions, which is why many people choose to see a private physiatrist at the first signs of pain or loss of functionality. With the help of a private physiatrist, you can assess your health status and take necessary steps to maintain your mobility.
How to Prepare for a Private Physiatry Consultation?
Before seeing a private physiatrist, it is crucial to prepare for the consultation accordingly. We advise our patients to write down a list of their symptoms, including their duration and intensity, their medication list, as well as the results of any previous medical tests. Lastly, make sure to ask any questions you may have during the consultation.
What does a Private Physiatry Consultation entail?
During the consultation, the physiatrist will review your medical history, perform physical exams, as well as in-depth diagnostic tests to evaluate your physical condition. The purpose of the consultation is to assess a person’s physical limitations following injury or illness. The physiatrist will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the person to determine the diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan. Physiatrists can treat a wide variety of medical problems including muscle pain, joint pain, sprains, back pain, and neurological disorders. Treatments may include rehabilitation exercises, medication, manual therapies, and other techniques aimed at improving the person’s physical function and quality of life. In a private setting, this implies faster access to a physiatrist and personalized care that more directly responds to each patient’s specific needs.
Consult our private physiatrist at UnionMD to manage your musculoskeletal health.