Physical medicine – whose longer name is physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), or physiatry – specializes in treating the loss of function through physical means, rather than through surgical procedures. This can involve physical therapy, electric-based therapy, and other noninvasive treatments.
The goal of physiatry is to provide lasting and permanent healing effects without invasive measures, so it aims to solve illnesses and address injuries at their cause. Physical medicine doesn’t end once you no longer have pain, because it also employs techniques to help you prevent reinjury.
Because physical medicine and rehabilitation often necessitates a number of medical treatments to fully address an issue, it typically calls for a team of medical providers with varying specialties. Let’s talk about how physical medicine is used to treat a health condition, and where you can go in Blue Springs to start healing and feeling great.
How Does It Work?
Physical medicine and rehabilitation combine the expertise of multiple healthcare fields. These can include sports medicine, pain management, rehabilitation, and therapy techniques.
The various treatment approaches work together to help you recover from injuries and illnesses. They specifically aid you in regaining functions and movements that may have been lost.
Here are some of the treatments used in physical medicine:
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic treatment is performed to address pain or disability in the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. A trained chiropractor will use targeted, rapid, and controlled force on specific points of your spine.
Chiropractic care is also called spinal manipulation. The procedure is typically used to address lower back and neck pain, and any pain that stems from the spinal cord.
Pain Management
Pain management aims to provide quick pain relief while also addressing the causes of your pain. Your healthcare provider may recommend a variety of treatments to help you manage pain, including the following:
- Exercise
- Using assistive devices
- Physical therapy
- Medication
Physical Therapy
Doctors often recommend physical therapy for those who suffer from injury, have an acute or chronic illness, or who have had surgery. It’s also helpful for people who need to regain their strength and flexibility.
Physical therapy plans vary per patient, but they typically include:
- Personalized exercise programs
- Stretches
- Manual therapy
- Temperature therapy (hot and cold treatment)
- Ultrasound
- Electrical stimulation
Assistive Devices
Some equipment utilized in physical therapy and recovery include:
- Corrective bracing for conditions like scoliosis and hip unloading
- Custom bracing for the knees
- Restrictive bracing for the ankles, wrists, or spine
- Therapeutic treatments like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain relief
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Blue Springs, MO
It’s crucial to treat every patient’s condition at its source – it’s not enough to treat the symptoms only. Otherwise, the symptoms and pain are liable to return.
If you’re looking for a clinic specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation in Blue Springs, Missouri, then look no further than Core Medical Center. Our highly skilled medical team always aims to provide compassionate and comprehensive treatment plans for all patients.
To find out more about us or to schedule an appointment, call us today at (816) 427-0201 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
