Physiatric Assessment and Rehabilitation Program

The physiatric assessment is a holistic evaluation of the patient that encompasses the physical condition as well as family, domestic, and social history. The physiatrist can offer their medical expertise across a broad spectrum of conditions, depending on the patient’s needs.

For outpatients (those who do not require hospitalization), the physiatrist provides:

  • A detailed medical history and a clinical physiatric examination according to standard medical protocols.

  • Examination of the musculoskeletal system and treatment of sports injuries.

  • Comprehensive neurophysiological testing for all types of muscular or nervous system disorders.

  • In addition to conventional therapeutic means (medications, etc.), the use of various therapeutic techniques and physical modalities (such as therapeutic exercise, heat, water, and electricity) to individually address the patient’s needs.

  • Use of minimally invasive (non-surgical) techniques for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of pain.

  • Management of spasticity using physical modalities, orthotic aids, and botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections.

  • Evaluation of prosthetic options for amputee patients.

  • Assessment and prescription of assistive rehabilitation devices.

  • Organization of a rehabilitation program for neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and strokes, with the primary goal of improving independence and quality of life.

  • Prescription of therapeutic exercise.

  • Provision of medical supervision and support to sports teams and social care structures.

  • Functional evaluation and disability assessment as requested by public insurance funds, private insurers, legal or professional claims for compensation.

For inpatients (those requiring hospitalization), the physiatrist is responsible:

  • (Following the patient’s medical stabilization) for setting rehabilitation goals and designing the rehabilitation program for individuals facing disability and functional deficits due to neurological or musculoskeletal conditions.

A fundamental role of the physiatrist is to lead and coordinate the Rehabilitation Team, which typically includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech-language therapists, clinical psychologists, nursing staff, social workers, prosthetic and orthotic technicians, and biomechanical experts. This team delivers complex therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual.

The rehabilitation program must be personalized and may involve:

  • Prevention of joint contractures and pressure ulcers

  • Skin care management

  • Spasticity management

  • Bladder and bowel management

  • Functional evaluation

  • Workplace and home environment modifications

  • Education and training of the patient’s family to support care

  • Prognosis on long-term outcomes in self-care, mobility, and social reintegration.

For the physiatrist, the ultimate therapeutic goal is to maximize the patient’s functional ability, regardless of age or medical condition.

Physiatric assessment represents a valuable medical service that recognizes functional ability as a key component of overall health.