Physiatrist

[backache]

I am being sent to a Physiatrist by my PCP. Has anyone had relief of pain from being evaluated by one when they come up with a plan of care? I feel that something is finally being done and I keep hoping that he will have an answer to what is wrong and how to fix it. What can I expect when I get there? Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks BA

[capricorn]

BA.....good to see you. WIth my first back injury ( 2 herniations) I had 5 ESI's and lots of Pt that did nothing for me. Finally I was sent to a physiatrist who gave me an injection in my sacroid joint. Boy oh boy did we find where the pain was coming from. He then recommended a specific physical therapist. I spent 3 months with Mark. He had me strengthen my legs and the muscles in my back . It was very hard at first but when I was done I could run. He used to have me lay on a table and would put each leg one by one over my head and lay on them softly. My spine specialist believes that although I am on my 3rd back injury I would be in alot worse shape IF I didn't go through this PT. We are all different. Just wanted you to know my experience.

CAP

[vickinat]

One of my previous doctor's for my back injury was a physiatrist. He would prescribe a combination of meds. He gave me 4 trigger point injections, 2 in the Periformis and 2 in the SI area. He would do manipulations very gently on me, similar to a chiropractor from what I was told (never went to a chiropractor).

He also prescribed physical and aqua therapy for me. He was the treating doctor and would give me my restrictions. After so many months of treatment, he sent me for an FCE to find out my abilities. He said he figured that the W/C would want to send me for one soon, so he was going to send me to whom he preferred, before they could request it.

I believe each doctor has thier own regimand that they try to relieve the pain. I wish you the best, hope you feel better soon.

Love
Vickie

[RNvic]

Glad to see they are finally sending you to another doctor, maybe now they will get something do and get you some relief of all the pain.

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

Here is my opinion. A Physiatrist is or could be like looking for a doctor that will fit the needs of the person seeing one. If, you get one that works with you each time you see them, then that too is great. If you get one that just shoves into their PT room, then what you going to do. Over the years, some have had great results, where as others had to find a different one. Kind of like any medication, trail and error. I pray this very first one will treat you the best, and have your best interest in mind the full time. Below is what you should be wanting from them to start also.

Diagnosing and treating pain;

Restore maximum function lost through injury,
illness or disabling conditions;

Treat the whole person, not just the problem area;

Lead a team of medical professionals;

Provide non-surgical treatments;

Explain your medical problems and treatment plan;

Work not only on treatment but also prevention;

http://www.aapmr.org/condtreat/faq.htm

[Still in Limbo]

Hi Backache!! It's Great to hear that they are at Least trying to get You to another Dr. for Care! My PM Dr. is also a Physiatrist, and has Done Wonders for Me! If it wasn't for Her, I wouldn't be able to Walk, She Used the Right Mix of Meds. that allow Me to "Chemically Walk". Without these Meds., I would have been Bed Ridden for a while now. These Type of Dr.'s seem to Listen and Understand Our Injuries, and Work with You to Come up with a Plan to Decrease Your Pain, and Increase Your Mobility. I Hope You get One as Good as Mine has been to Me, Please Keep Us Informed!!

[optimized]

What state are you in?

[backache]

I am in PA.........You guys have given me so much hope.......I have felt for so long that they should be doing something more for me than has been done. I had shots in my spinal column , but I never felt the Dr. was putting them in the correct place. Of course try and tell a Dr. that..................This is the first time that I have had this much hope. My lawyer said he has had injured people go to this Dr. before and he is one of the best. He was worried I wouldn't want to travel to Pittsburgh since it's pretty far away, but as long as I get help I don't care where they send me. Thank you so much for sharing your stories with me. I truly know if I get to the right person I can get better in time.........

[jayne]

watch the drivers there in your big citys they can be rough....

[backache]

Considering we have to drive over 10 miles to even see a stop sign and there are only 5 in that town I will be a wreck. The Daver on the other hand use to work in Cleveland and it doesn't bother him at all. I will keep my eyes closed and my hopes soring I haven't been this happy in ages just thinking I may get help has helped......