Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) physicians are experts in restoring function after injury or illness. PMR physicians serve as consultants for patients, helping to understand and address mobility issues and disability in patients with a range of conditions including brain injury, spinal cord injuries, or neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, MS, and stroke, burns, amputations, and complex wounds.

Working in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Work in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is available in a range of settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private clinics, long-term care facilities, and even schools. PMR Physicians work alongside nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, neuropsychologists and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to help patients regain function, reduce pain, and optimize physical abilities. PMR physicians may specialize in a particular area in medicine such as Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Stroke, Limb Loss, Sports Medicine, Pain Medicine, and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.

Education and Training for PMR

To work as a PMR physician, one must first complete medical school and a residency program in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. After medical school, residency in PMR typically takes four years, and additional specialized training through fellowships is available depending on an individual's career goals.

Tools and Skills

PMR physicians use a variety of tools and equipment including electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve function, and various imaging tests like MRI and X-ray. PMR physicians also use and interpret data from physical and occupational therapy evaluations to provide comprehensive patient care.

Professional Development and Growth

PMR physicians have many opportunities for professional development and growth. They can obtain board certification from the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Additionally, they can specialize in a subfield through fellowships. Research is also an important aspect of PMR, and there are many opportunities to present findings at medical conferences and publish articles in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills Developed in PMR

Working in PMR helps develop skills that can be transferred to other careers in healthcare like general medicine, pediatrics, or even research and administration within the healthcare field.

A Day in the Life of a PMR Physician

PMR physicians begin their day by reviewing patient charts, evaluating new referrals and seeing patients in the clinic. They may perform physical exams, order tests, and interpret results to determine a diagnosis and plan of care. PMR physicians may also provide injections, prescribe medications, and recommend or order physical therapy and occupational therapy.

Challenges and Rewards of PMR

PMR physicians work with patients and families at very challenging times in their lives. Working with patients through rehabilitation can be emotionally taxing, but it is also deeply rewarding to see patients regain function and improve their quality of life.

Personal Growth in PMR

Working with patients from all walks of life who are facing physical challenges can provide unique opportunities for personal growth and development. PMR physicians must also be effective communicators and educators, as they regularly explain medical and treatment information to patients and their families and other healthcare professionals. PMR physicians must be lifelong learners, keeping up with new advances in rehabilitation to provide the best possible care to their patients.

Preparing for a Career in PMR

College students interested in a career in PMR can gain exposure to PMR through volunteering at a hospital or rehabilitation center, or by shadowing a PMR physician. Additionally, research experience and a solid foundation in science, particularly biology, anatomy, and physiology, along with strong communication skills are helpful for students planning a career in PMR.

Online Courses and PMR

Students and learners can benefit from online courses to better prepare for a career in PMR. Online courses provide convenient and flexible access to learning materials, and there are many ways to learn about medicine and rehabilitation including online courses. Online courses allow students to learn about PMR at their own pace and can help students build foundational knowledge. However, online courses alone are typically not enough to enter into practice as a PMR physician. A comprehensive education and training with hands-on clinical experience is required to work in PMR.