Physiatrist Examination

What is a physiatrist examination?

A physiatrist examination is a specialist consultation where a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist reviews your medical history, conducts a clinical examination of the musculoskeletal and joint systems, and based on the diagnosis, recommends therapy and/or a rehabilitation plan. Often, additional tests or consultations with other specialists may be indicated. This branch of medicine is responsible for restoring and optimizing the functionality of the movement system in patients whose issues are caused by disease, disorder, or injury.

When is a physiatrist examination needed?

A physiatrist examination is typically indicated for injuries or surgical procedures related to the musculoskeletal system, but also for issues observed during daily activities or while at rest. Symptoms may be present in various parts of the locomotor system (movement system), such as the spine, arms, legs, joints, etc.

A physiatrist examination is recommended if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Chronic pain in a specific part of the body: back, neck, joints, muscles, etc.
• Stiffness and reduced joint mobility
• Problems related to performing certain physical activities (e.g., walking, running, sitting, exercising, sports)
• Joint inflammation caused by chronic diseases
• Balance problems/frequent falls due to instability
• Loss of muscle mass and tone due to illness
• Discomfort during rest/sleep

What does a physiatrist examination involve?

The examination involves discussing your medical history, previous surgeries, medications, supplements, and symptoms that affect your normal functioning. The physical examination includes assessing motor function, reflexes, gait patterns, posture, and the spine. You may be asked to change positions, such as sitting, standing, bending forward, turning in a specific direction, or walking.

In a lying or sitting position, active (resulting from muscle activity) and passive (performed by external force, i.e., the examiner’s hand) range of motion and muscle strength are evaluated, and targeted areas on the body are palpated to check for tenderness or sensitivity (ligaments, tendons, muscles).

At the end of the physical examination, the physician will provide a diagnosis or a specific suspicion that may require further investigation through radiological methods, blood analysis, electromyography (EMG), or consultation with other specialists. You will also receive a therapy or rehabilitation plan based on the diagnosis.

What can a physiatrist diagnose?

Physiatrists diagnose diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system, and also assist in treating conditions related to other specialties. This includes a range of congenital and acquired diseases, disorders, and pathological conditions:

• Spine irregularities (kyphosis, scoliosis, lordosis)
• Enthesopathies, myopathies, radiculopathies
• Fibromyalgia
• Lumboischialgia
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Disc herniation
• Inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic diseases (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Sports injuries or injuries from traumatic events
• Overuse syndromes related to sports or work

Based on the diagnosis, the therapy and rehabilitation plan may include:

• Pain medications
• Physical therapy (radiofrequency, magnet therapy, laser therapy, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, ice; shockwave therapy, lymphatic drainage)
• Targeted exercises
• Manual therapy (massage, myofascial release)
• Nutritional recommendations
• Injections into soft tissues or joints
• Use of robotic devices for assisted rehabilitation
• Use of orthopedic aids

Role of the physiotherapist

Some of the therapeutic methods prescribed by the specialist are carried out by a physiotherapist. The physiotherapist applies the prescribed physical therapy to the patient and teaches tools for restoring functionality and reducing discomfort. The importance of the physiotherapist’s role is particularly evident:

• In rehabilitation after injuries and surgeries of the musculoskeletal system (e.g., joint prosthesis implantation; hip, shoulder, knee arthroscopy, etc.)
• In treating inflammatory and degenerative rheumatic diseases (various types of arthritis and arthrosis)

Physiotherapy can also:

• Reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain and the need for pain medications
• In some cases, delay or avoid surgery
• Restore functionality after a stroke or conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries, etc.
• Teach proper movement patterns in daily life and reduce the risk of injury
• Address muscle imbalances and strengthen specific muscle groups

How to prepare for the examination?

Prepare any previous (relevant to current complaints) medical documentation, including radiological images if available. It is also recommended to think about any uncertainties you have and bring them up during the examination so the physician can assist you.

Cost of physiatrist examination

The cost of a physiatrist examination can be checked in the current price list.

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