Physiatrists
What is a Physiatrist?
A physiatrist is a doctor with specialized training in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, which is “a branch of medicine that is dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of all types of disabilities related to the brain, nerves, bones and muscles.” The goal of a physiatrist is to help patients from a holistic perspective to improve the patient’s overall quality of life. They help patients with injuries or disabilities in order to avoid surgery as much as possible.
A physiatrist can receive a subspecialty certification in Brain Injury Medicine; however, not all Brain Injury Medicine subspecialists have experience with concussions. On our Find Providers page there is a section on Brain Injury Medicine subspecialty certification that has search tools for this kind of provider.
How do they assess a concussion?
A physiatrist will assess a patient by considering all aspects of their health. A physiatrist needs to incorporate all biopsychosocial elements they have learned from their patient. This includes interviews with the patient and loved ones, a physical exam, and possibly other tools specific to the provider. They may use a tool like the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) for assessment. The ICF evaluates both physical functioning and contextual factors to recommend possible treatments. A physiatrist will also try to determine what daily activities the patient struggles to participate in, including taking care of children, walking up the stairs, or physical tasks in their workplace.
What treatments do they offer?
A physiatrist can primarily treat symptoms of “balance, vision, headaches, and cognition.” They can offer referrals to a physical or occupational therapist to treat these symptoms, especially one who specializes in vestibular therapy. Treatments could include at-home exercises and appointments with the physiatrist to check on progress and monitor symptoms. They can also prescribe medicine for pain; however, no medication will cure a concussion, and they must keep in mind possible side effects that may aggravate symptoms.
Where can you find a Physiatrist?
A physiatrist can work at a concussion clinic, rehabilitation center, or hospital. It is imperative that you find a physiatrist that has experience working with concussion patients so you can get the best possible care. Your local concussion clinic is a safe place to look for someone with experience; your primary care physician or another medical provider may also be able to refer you to a physiatrist with concussion experience. The Concussion Alliance has instructions for searching for physiatrists on the “where to find healthcare providers” webpage.
Who might they refer you to?
The following occupations are possible providers that a physiatrist may refer you to in order to help with other symptoms.
*The links attached to these providers offer general definitions of that profession and do not specifically address concussion care. The Concussion Alliance recommends that you seek treatment from a provider with experience in concussion treatments.