What is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—and Could I Benefit from Seeing a PM&R Physician?
There was so much to be thankful for in 2020, so we’re keeping our eye on the positive! We were fortunate enough to add a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation doctor to our team of incredibly talented physicians and surgeons—Dr. Amardeep Chauhan! And in honor of that great addition, we’re putting the spotlight on his area of expertise to shed some light on all the great benefits of what he does.
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), also known as physiatry or rehabilitation medicine, aims to help restore functional ability and quality of life for those suffering from an orthopaedic injury or condition. There is no surgery involved in this area of medicine. Instead, PM&R doctors prescribe medication, physical therapy, and exercise programs to treat and manage injuries and disorders.
Reasons to See a PM&R Physician
You could benefit from a consultation with a PM&R physician if:
- You are contemplating surgery but want to explore other options
- You are recovering from surgery
- You have experienced an injury to the musculoskeletal system
- You are recovering from a stroke or other types of nerve damage
- You are experiencing new physical limitations related to aging
- You find exercise challenging because of your age
- You are experiencing new physical limitations related to childbirth or menopause
- You are experiencing physical limitations related to excess weight or obesity
- You are struggling with arthritis, osteoporosis, or other orthopaedic conditions
If you’re unsure whether or not you could benefit from seeing our PM&R specialist, just give us a call at (844) 469-2663! We can set up a consultation to further assess your needs.
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation FAQs
Do I have to have surgery?
PM&R is an area of medicine intended to treat and manage physical limitations via medication, physical therapy, and exercise. This is a great alternative to having orthopaedic surgery, but ultimately your doctor will determine the best plan for your treatment. If surgery is necessary, your PM&R doctor will coordinate with your surgeon on a customized treatment plan.
Do I have to take pain medications?
Your PM&R doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment methods, and will certainly honor any patient wishes to avoid pain medications. There are other options to help manage and minimize your discomfort and physical limitations.
Do I have to get injections?
Your PM&R doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment methods that you are comfortable with.
Can you create a customized exercise plan for me?
Yes, your PM&R doctor may recommend an exercise program accompanied by a physical therapy plan if it meets your needs and is a safe and viable option. All treatment plans are completely customized by your doctor.
What if I end up needing surgery?
If your PM&R doctor determines that surgery would be the best option for your condition, he will refer you to one of our surgeons and coordinate treatment. Patients often benefit tremendously from seeing a PM&R doctor both before and after orthopaedic surgery.
Can I benefit from seeing a PM&R doctor after surgery?
Yes, you may find that physical therapy or a customized exercise plan is necessary after surgery. Our PM&R specialist can work with you to maximize your recovery and results from surgery.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Chauhan
Dr. Amardeep Chauhan is an experienced Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation doctor certified by the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R). He specializes in Interventional Spine (for acute and chronic pain), Musculoskeletal, Sports and Occupational Medicine, Electrodiagnostics, Spinal and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, and Functional Restoration and Wellness. Learn more about Dr. Chauhan.
If you are living with extreme discomfort or pain of any part of the musculoskeletal system, there are solutions! Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chauhan or learn more about what OrthoUnited can offer you. We’re here to help!