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.
What Is a Physiatrist?
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.
What Conditions Do Physiatrists Treat?
Physiatrists often work with patients dealing with:
- Back and neck pain
- Joint and muscle injuries
- Stroke recovery
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Arthritis
- Multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
- Chronic pain
- Sports injuries
- Post-surgical rehab
They create custom rehabilitation plans that may involve physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and lifestyle adjustments.
Physiatrist vs. Physical Therapist: What’s the Difference?
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.
Common Misconceptions About Physiatrists
- ❌ “They’re just another kind of therapist.”
✔️ Physiatrists are fully trained medical doctors who diagnose and manage complex health issues. - ❌ “You only need one after surgery.”
✔️ Many people see physiatrists for non-surgical conditions, like chronic back pain or neurological issues. - ❌ “They only treat athletes.”
✔️ While sports medicine is part of physiatry, they also treat seniors, accident victims, and people with disabilities.
How Do Physiatrists Treat Patients?
Treatment often includes a multi-modal approach based on individual goals and medical history:
- Physical therapy (coordinated with therapists)
- Pain management techniques (injections, medications)
- Assistive devices (braces, wheelchairs, orthotics)
- Rehabilitation exercises tailored to the injury
- Nerve testing (EMG/NCS) to diagnose muscle and nerve conditions
- Lifestyle counseling for long-term wellness
The focus is always on restoring function, not just reducing pain.
Real Results: Why Rehabilitation Matters
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
Insurance Coverage in Canada
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:
- With your family physician (they may need to refer you)
- With your provincial health website
- With your private insurer (for supplemental benefits)
Tips to Find a Qualified Physiatrist in Canada
- Ask your family doctor for a referral—most physiatrists require it.
- Visit the Canadian Association of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (www.capmr.ca) for listings.
- Use local hospital or clinic websites—search “physiatrist near me.”
- Look for specialization (e.g., sports rehab, neuro rehab).
- Read patient reviews on Google or RateMDs to assess bedside manner and wait times.
Why See a Physiatrist?
- Get a comprehensive diagnosis
- Avoid or delay surgery
- Access to a team-based approach to recovery
- Manage chronic pain more effectively
- Return to work or hobbies sooner
- Improve quality of life
Further Resources and Support Groups
- CAPMR – www.capmr.ca
- Brain Injury Canada – www.braininjurycanada.ca
- March of Dimes Canada – www.marchofdimes.ca
- Canadian Pain Society – www.canadianpainsociety.ca
Ready to Reclaim Your Mobility?
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