Rehabify
In brief
A physiatrist is a medical doctor who specialises in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR). They diagnose and treat pain, weakness and loss of movement caused by problems in the muscles, bones, joints, nerves, brain or spinal cord, mostly without surgery. At Rehabify in Bengaluru, Dr. Dharshan N A is a physiatrist (MD PMR) with a fellowship in interventional pain management.
What a physiatrist does
The aim of a physiatrist is simple: help you do more of what matters to you, with less pain. That might be walking to the shop, going back to work, playing cricket again or getting dressed without help.
To do this, a physiatrist:
- Finds the cause. A detailed history and examination of how you move, your nerves, strength and balance. Scans and nerve tests are used when they will change your care.
- Treats the whole problem. Pain, stiffness, weakness, balance and daily activities, not just one scan finding.
- Leads a team. Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, orthotists and your other doctors work to one plan.
- Uses many tools. Exercise programmes, medicines, splints and braces, walking aids, and procedures such as image-guided injections, nerve blocks or botulinum toxin injections for muscle stiffness, when suitable.
- Plans for the long term. Home programmes and follow-up so progress lasts.
Physiatrist, physiotherapist or orthopaedic surgeon?
These three roles often get mixed up.
- A physiatrist is a doctor (MBBS, then a 3-year MD or DNB in PMR). They diagnose, prescribe medicines, order tests, do procedures and plan rehab.
- A physiotherapist is a trained therapist who delivers exercise and movement treatment. Physiatrists and physiotherapists usually work closely together.
- An orthopaedic surgeon is a doctor who operates on bones and joints. If surgery may help you, a physiatrist will explain why and refer you to a surgeon of your choice.
Many problems do not need surgery. A physiatrist is often a good first doctor for long-lasting pain or a loss of movement, and a good partner before and after surgery.
When should you see a physiatrist?
Consider seeing one if you have:
- Back, neck or joint pain that lasts more than a few weeks or keeps coming back
- Sciatica, with pain, tingling or numbness down the leg
- A stroke, spinal cord injury or head injury, to plan rehab and manage stiffness, pain and daily tasks
- Parkinson's disease or another nerve condition affecting walking or balance
- Sports injuries or a slow recovery after a fracture or joint surgery
- Knee or hip osteoarthritis and want to stay active
- Falls, weak bones or poor balance in later life
- A child with movement or development concerns, such as cerebral palsy, alongside the paediatrician
- An amputation, to plan a prosthesis and training
You do not always need a referral. You can book directly.
What happens at a first visit
- Your story. What happened, what you can and cannot do, and what you want to get back to.
- Examination. Movement, strength, nerves, reflexes, walking and balance.
- Review of scans and reports. Bring everything you have.
- A clear plan. Explained in plain words, with home exercises and a review date.
Follow-ups can often be done by video consult, especially for checking home programmes.
What a physiatrist cannot promise
Recovery depends on the condition, how long it has been there, your general health and how much rehab you can do. A good physiatrist will tell you honestly what is likely, set realistic goals and change the plan as you progress.
When to get help urgently
Common questions
Is a physiatrist a real doctor?
Yes. A physiatrist has an MBBS degree and a postgraduate degree (MD or DNB) in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and is registered with a State Medical Council.
Do I need a referral to see a physiatrist?
No. You can book directly with Rehabify. If you already have a doctor, we can share updates with them with your consent.
Does a physiatrist do surgery?
No. Physiatrists treat without open surgery. Some, like Dr. Dharshan N A, are trained to do image-guided injections and nerve blocks when suitable.
How is a physiatrist different from a physiotherapist?
A physiatrist is a doctor who diagnoses, prescribes and plans care. A physiotherapist delivers exercise and hands-on therapy. They usually work as a team.
Can I see a physiatrist by video?
Yes, for many follow-ups and some first consults. The doctor may ask you to visit the clinic if an in-person examination is needed.
Sources
- [1]
International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ISPRM). description of the specialty
- [2]
World Health Organization. Rehabilitation 2030 initiative and rehabilitation fact sheet
- [3]
National Medical Commission. MD Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation curriculum
This guide is for general education and does not replace a consultation. Read how we write and review guides in our editorial policy.
