When it comes to musculoskeletal injuries (or injuries of the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, or tendons), it can be confusing to decide whether to see a Physiatrist or an Orthopedist.
While both fields aim to ultimately improve physical function and relieve pain, Physiatrists and Orthopedists offer different approaches to treatment.
Dr. Patrick Siegele, a Gaylord Specialty Healthcare Physiatrist who specializes in treating patients with musculoskeletal conditions or pain, explains what sets these disciplines apart and how to determine which specialty best suits your needs.
What is a Physiatrist?
As a Physiatrist - or physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) doctor - Dr. Siegele is focused on helping people live more functional and pain-free lives.
Physiatry encompasses a broad range of conditions related to the brain, spine, muscles, and joints. At its core, physiatry emphasizes conservative and highly individualized approaches to help patients find relief from persistent pain, restore function, and ultimately improve their quality of life.
Physiatrists treat:
- Musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and joint pain including osteoarthritis
- Neurological conditions including stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury
- Long COVID
- Sports injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis
- Post-surgical patients for rehabilitation to improve strength and range of motion after orthopedic surgeries
Dr. Siegele noted that physiatrists offer a holistic approach explaining that rather than focusing solely on one specific body part, they will evaluate all aspects of a patient’s life that may be affected by their condition.
“Whether it’s returning to the activities they enjoy or getting back to work, we’re focused on addressing the patient’s functional goals without surgery or opioids,” he explained.
What is an Orthopedist?
Orthopedic surgeons are specialists who also focus on the diagnosis and treatment of injuries or diseases of the musculoskeletal system. But unlike physiatrists, orthopedists treat patients with conditions that may require surgical intervention, such as:
- Fractures or broken bones that need surgical repair
- Severe joint injuries and structural abnormalities that need reconstruction
- Conditions that may require joint replacement surgery
Where Does a Physiatrist Fit into the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pain?
“Physiatrists fill the gap between the onset of musculoskeletal pain or injury and the need for surgery,” said Dr. Siegele.
He explained that seeing a physiatrist is an excellent option for those with musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction who:
- Are searching for a non-surgical solution with no or little downtime after treatment
- Haven’t had success with other treatments
- Are looking for a second opinion before committing to surgery
- Desire lasting pain relief without the use of opioids
“Physiatrists have a wealth of options in their toolbox to help patients manage pain and regain function," says Dr. Siegele. "We focus on safe, individualized therapies that allow patients to find relief without the downtime or risks associated with surgery or opioids.”
Some of the most effective non-surgical therapies a physiatrist can offer include:
- Highly targeted therapeutic exercises / physical therapy
- Bracing to support joints, muscles, and ligaments.
- Non-opioid medications to manage pain or inflammation
- Ultrasound-guided injections of steroids or medications to target specific areas and promote healing
- Hyaluronic acid injections, or viscosupplementation, to provide joint pain relief
- Regenerative medicine, such as platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, to stimulate the body’s own ability to heal.
Ready to find relief? Call (203) 284-2845 to schedule an evaluation.
