The musculoskeletal system is the body's elaborate structure of bones, joints and connective tissues that support movement. When something goes wrong, and an injury or medical condition impacts mobility or causes pain, patients need to know which medical professionals to turn to.
Two key figures in musculoskeletal care are physiatrists and orthopedic surgeons. These medical specialists aim to alleviate conditions arising from the musculoskeletal system in different ways.
A Physiatrist vs. Orthopedic Surgeon
Physiatrists
Physiatrists are specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). A physiatrist's main focus is to improve the function and mobility of patients while reducing symptoms that could hinder their recovery, like chronic pain.
Physiatrists specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions — with a nonoperative approach. They offer expert diagnosis if an accident, injury or disease is causing strength or mobility issues. Yet, their emphasis is rehabilitation. Treatment, recommendations, or referrals aim to improve a patient's quality of life and help them achieve their highest level of functionality and independence.
Orthopedists
Orthopedists, also called orthopedic surgeons, care for bones, joints and other tissues that connect the musculoskeletal system. Often, a patient is referred to an orthopedic doctor by their primary care physician or a physiatrist.
An orthopedic surgeon can offer expert diagnoses and treat various conditions and injuries, such as fractures, joint concerns, and orthopedic conditions.
While orthopedists usually explore nonsurgical options first, their primary focus is surgical interventions. Orthopedic surgeons have the training to perform highly complex procedures like joint replacements and arthroscopy.
Orthopedics vs. Physiatry: What Are the Key Differences
While both physiatrists and orthopedic physicians practice musculoskeletal care, these specialists differ in many unique ways.
Training and Education
Both physiatrists and orthopedic surgeons are licensed, board-certified medical doctors. Their paths differ after medical school.
- Physiatry requires a four-year residency specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation, focusing on specialized nonsurgical techniques, such as therapeutic injections.
- Orthopedics requires a five-year residency and extensive training in traditional and advanced orthopedic surgery.
Conditions Treated
Orthopedists and physiatrists often overlap in their treatment of conditions. Both care for countless musculoskeletal conditions, including fractures, arthritis and sports-related injuries. However, physiatrists frequently focus on chronic pain and can treat other conditions other than musculoskeletal concerns, including neurological disorders and post-operative recovery.
Roles
Patients with multiple medical conditions or complex rehabilitation needs require a team approach. Physiatrists head rehabilitation efforts by creating a comprehensive plan, overseeing its execution and collaborating with other medical professionals.
If a patient is not responding to conventional treatments prescribed by a physiatrist, an orthopedic surgeon can step in to evaluate their condition further and determine if surgery is their best option.
Collaborative Approach to Patient Care
In musculoskeletal medicine, the goal is to improve a patient's function and quality of life. Sometimes, that means an individual will work solely with their physiatrist. Other times, it requires a more comprehensive and collaborative effort.
Physiatrists are experts in care coordination. They understand the importance of working with orthopedists, physical therapists and other specialists for a more comprehensive approach to treatment. Interdisciplinary care is pivotal in musculoskeletal health, addressing complex conditions from multiple angles.
Benefit From Medrina's Skilled Physiatrists
If you have patients at your facility who are seeking a nonsurgical treatment for a musculoskeletal condition, trust Medrina to help them find relief. We have a team of dedicated physiatrists who are eager to assist your patients.
Contact Medrina to learn about our physiatrist programs.
-1.png)
