Physiatrists are physicians who specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and are trained to diagnose, treat, and direct a rehabilitation plan that provides the best possible outcomes for their patients. Physiatry not only employs the usual tools of medicine, but also uses physical agents and therapeutic exercise in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of disorders that produce pain, impairment and disability.

The physiatrists of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush specialize in treating the symptoms of musculoskeletal and spine pain, and understand the causes of this pain. The goal of treatment is always to restore normal function and improve quality of life for patients from a physical, emotional, psychosocial and vocational perspective.

The following is a list of some of the conditions related to back pain commonly treated by physiatrists:

• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Disc, facet and nerve root pain
• Failed back syndrome
• Musculoskeletal and myofascial pain
• Occupational injury
• Postoperative pain
• Sciatica
• Sports injuries
• Osteoarthritis

Our physicians also use noninvasive procedures as both diagnostic and therapeutic tools, helping to understand the source of a pain causing disorder. By combining resources, our doctors are able to provide state-of-the-art pain management care with the latest in technology and treatment choices. As colleagues, our professionals are always working together to provide the newest and medically proven options.

The treatment plan offered for pain and injury may include:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Psychology
• Braces
• Injections of muscles, bursae, joints
• Interventional procedures, including epidural and facet injections
• Electromyography

A referral from your physician is typically required for most orthopaedic pain management procedures. For more information, contact Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.

• April Fetzer, D.O.