A physiatrist is a medical
doctor who specializes in the treatment of patients
with musculoskeletal or neurologic injuries or disabilities.
Such disabilities include a broad spectrum of diagnoses
from tennis elbow to a spinal cord injury.
In making a diagnosis,
the physiatrist can utilize x-rays, MRI's, CT scans
and lab tests. If there is a question of a nerve injury
such as carpal tunnel syndrome, the doctor is able
to perform electrodiagnostic studies, which can explain
where the nerve is injured and the severity of the
injury.
A physiatrist treats disorders
through a nonsurgical approach, which utilizes a combination
of therapeutic techniques such as physical therapy
as well as medications and injections when appropriate.
Injections include epidural injections used in the
treatment of neck and back pain, joint injections for
arthritis or inflamation of joints (leg, knee, shoulder)
and trigger point injections for muscular pain.
The goal of a physiatrist
is to make a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment
plan so that the patient can obtain a greater level
of function as well as the highest quality of life. | 
