Rehabilitation physicians are nerve, muscle, and bone experts who
treat injuries or illnesses that affect how you move. By taking the
whole body into account, they are able to accurately pinpoint
problems and enhance performance - without surgery. Consider seeing
a rehabilitation physician if:
- You had an accident or you have an injury or chronic
condition that has left you with pain or limited function
- You’re contemplating or recovering from
surgery
- You have an illness or treatment for an
illness that has diminished your energy or ability to move
easily
- You’re recovering from the effects of a
stroke or other problems related to nerve damage
- You have chronic pain from arthritis, a
repetitive stress injury, or back problems
- Excess weight makes it difficult to exercise
or has caused health problems
- You think you’re too old to exercise
- Life changes such as childbirth or menopause
have created new challenges to your physical function
Getting started
A rehabilitation physician will thoroughly assess your condition,
needs, and expectations and rule out any serious medical illnesses
to develop a treatment plan. A clear understanding of your condition
and limitations will help you and your rehabilitation physician to
develop a treatment plan suited to your unique needs.
Tailoring your plan
You need the right type of exercise to effectively overcome
fitness obstacles. A runner may have gained weight after being
sidelined by a knee injury. A rehabilitation physician can prescribe
tailored, low-impact activities that burn calories without
aggravating the injury, simultaneously prescribing physical therapy
and use of a brace to strengthen and support the knee. Another
patient may be suffering from chronic neck pain. The rehabilitation
physician might prescribe medication, stretching, and massage for
short-term pain relief, as well as strengthening exercises to
prevent future pain. If surgery is a necessity, rehabilitation
physicians work with patients and their surgeons before and after
surgery. By directing your treatment team and collaborating with
other health care professionals, a rehabilitation physician is able
to specially design a treatment program tailored to you.
Understanding and identifying your goals
Do you want to strengthen an injured muscle, find relief from
chronic pain, or walk up the stairs without being winded? A
rehabilitation physician can work with you to determine realistic
short- and long-term goals. Along the way, he or she will help you
to find relief from pain, achieve successes in rehabilitation or
exercise programs, overcome your setbacks, and reassess your goals
if necessary.
