Date posted: September 15, 2026
Michael Hernandez Jr., MD
Living with chronic pain or recovering from an injury can leave you wondering which specialist is right for your care. What is a physiatrist? Also known as a PM&R physician, a physiatrist focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect movement, avoiding surgery whenever possible. This guide explains what PM&R is, the conditions physiatrists treat, how they differ from other specialists, and when scheduling an appointment at SCOI may be the right next step.
Many people ask: what is a physiatrist, and how does a physiatrist differ from other medical specialists?
A physiatrist is a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). Rather than focusing on surgery, physiatrists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the muscles, bones, joints, nerves, and spine using personalized rehabilitation plans designed to reduce pain and improve movement.
So, what is PM&R? PM&R is a medical specialty dedicated to restoring function after injury, illness, or chronic conditions. Treatment may include medications, image-guided injections, regenerative medicine when appropriate, physical therapy, lifestyle recommendations, and coordinated rehabilitation programs.
Physiatrists often lead a team-based approach, working closely with orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, neurologists, and other specialists to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
If you’ve wondered what is a physiatrist and what they are responsible for treating, the answer includes a wide variety of painful and mobility-limiting conditions.
Some common conditions include:
Because their goal is improving function, physiatrists treat the whole person rather than focusing on a single injury or body part.
Understanding what is a physiatrist and what they do becomes easier when comparing them to other healthcare providers.
| Specialist | Primary Focus | Typical Treatments | When You Might See Them |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physiatrist (PM&R) | Restoring function and reducing pain without surgery whenever possible | Rehabilitation plans, medications, image-guided injections, therapy coordination | Chronic pain, spine conditions, sports injuries, rehabilitation after surgery or injury |
| Orthopedic Surgeon | Surgical and nonsurgical treatment of bones and joints | Surgery, fracture care, joint replacement, sports medicine | Broken bones, severe arthritis, ligament tears, surgical conditions |
| Pain Management Physician | Managing chronic pain symptoms | Pain medications, spinal injections, nerve blocks, minimally invasive pain procedures | Persistent pain that requires specialized pain interventions |
| Physical Therapist | Improving movement through exercise and rehabilitation | Strengthening exercises, stretching, mobility training, manual therapy | Recovery after injury, surgery, or physician referral |
These specialists often work together. For example, a patient recovering from shoulder surgery may have an orthopedic surgeon perform the operation, a physiatrist oversee rehabilitation, and a physical therapist guide exercises throughout recovery.
During your first appointment, your physiatrist will take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, daily activities, and personal goals.
Your evaluation may include:
Depending on your condition, treatment may include rehabilitation exercises, medications, injections, referrals to physical therapy, or additional diagnostic testing. Many patients benefit from combining several treatment approaches to improve both pain and function.
Referral requirements vary depending on your insurance plan. Many patients can schedule an appointment directly, while others may need a referral from their primary care physician.
No. Physiatrists specialize in nonsurgical treatments designed to improve function and relieve pain. If surgery becomes necessary, they work closely with orthopedic surgeons to coordinate your care.
Yes. PM&R physicians frequently evaluate and treat chronic neck and back pain using personalized rehabilitation plans, medications, therapeutic injections, and coordinated therapy.
Many patients benefit from physical therapy as part of their treatment plan. Your physiatrist works closely with therapists to ensure your rehabilitation program matches your diagnosis and recovery goals.
Living with pain doesn’t have to become your new normal. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a spine condition, or looking for nonsurgical treatment options, SCOI’s PM&R specialists can help you move more comfortably and confidently.
Learn more about our pain management and PM&R services or request an appointment to start building a personalized treatment plan focused on your recovery.
Michael Hernandez Jr., MD
Subscribe to get helpful orthopedic tips, recovery advice, and the latest on joint health—straight to your inbox.
Want more expert insights?
Subscribe SCOI's mailing list to get helpful orthopedic tips, recovery advice, and the latest on joint health--straight to your inbox.
2026 © Southern California Orthopedic Institute. All Rights Reserved. Designed by Farotech
