Curious about what a physiatrist does? Learn how these rehabilitation experts help Canadians recover from injuries, manage pain, and regain independence—plus how to find one near you.
A physiatrist (pronounced fizz-eye-uh-trist) is a medical doctor who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). Their primary goal is to help patients restore function, improve mobility, and reduce pain—especially after injury, illness, or surgery. Unlike surgeons, physiatrists focus on non-surgical treatments to support recovery and quality of life.
Physiatrists treat people of all ages, from young athletes to seniors recovering from strokes or fractures. They don’t just treat symptoms—they help patients regain the ability to live life fully.
Physiatrists often work with patients dealing with:
They create custom rehabilitation plans that may involve physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and lifestyle adjustments.
Many Canadians confuse physiatrists with physiotherapists. Here’s how they differ:
| Physiatrist | Physiotherapist |
|---|---|
| A licensed medical doctor (MD) | A licensed rehabilitation therapist |
| Can diagnose conditions and prescribe medications | Focuses on hands-on rehab techniques |
| Coordinates rehab plans using multiple modalities | Specializes in physical treatment like exercise, stretching |
| Works with complex or chronic cases | Often handles mild to moderate conditions |
Physiatrists often lead a rehabilitation team that includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists.
Treatment often includes a multi-modal approach based on individual goals and medical history:
The focus is always on restoring function, not just reducing pain.
According to the Canadian Medical Association, timely rehabilitation can improve recovery rates by up to 60% for post-stroke patients and reduce hospital readmissions by 30% among those with chronic pain or injuries.
Patient testimonial:
“After my car accident, I couldn’t lift my arm properly. Working with a physiatrist gave me a structured rehab plan. Now I’m back to work and even cycling again.” — Raj, Calgary
In Canada, physiatrists typically work within public healthcare systems, meaning that consultations are covered under your provincial health plan (e.g., OHIP, AHCIP).
However, some services, like certain diagnostic tests or private rehab therapies, may not be fully covered. It’s smart to check:
If you’re struggling with long-term pain, recovering from an injury, or managing a chronic condition, seeing a physiatrist can make a real difference. Their personalized, whole-body approach to recovery is ideal for anyone looking to move better, feel better, and live better.
👉 Explore more rehabilitation resources and find trusted care providers at missionhealthphysio.ca
Book an Appointment with Mission Health. We have two locations in Alberta, at Brooks and Cochrane.
Mission Health Physiotherapy & Massage offers a comprehensive approach to pain relief, injury recovery, and performance enhancement. With locations in Cochrane and Brooks, Alberta, our team of physiotherapists, massage therapists, and other healthcare professionals work together to create personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs and goals. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, seeking chronic pain management, or looking to improve your athletic performance, Mission Health can help you move better, feel better, and live a more active life.
Follow Our Brook Location
Follow Our Cochrane Location
© 2024 Mission Health Physiotherapy & Massage | Mission Health Physiotherapy & Sports Rehab • All Rights Reserved