Musculoskeletal Medicine

Refers to more than 100 different diseases that cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in joints and connective tissues throughout the body. Arthritis is usually chronic and progressive, meaning that it may last a lifetime. A physiatrist can develop an individualized comprehensive medical rehabilitation plan that can help manage any form of arthritis. How the disease progresses also varies depending on the form of arthritis, and the success of the recommended treatment program. The most common form of arthritis is Osteoarthritis (OA), which is a degenerative form of joint disease where the cartilage slowly and progressively deteriorates and may even disappear altogether. Since cartilage is the substance that covers and protects the end of the bones providing a cushioned support, the loss of cartilage thickness in OA leads to pain and loss of movement as bone begins to rub against bone. OA frequently affects the knees, hands, and hips, but can affect any joint.

Tendinopathy refers to any problem concerning tendons. These include bursitis, tendonitis, and tears, such as those in the rotator cuff. Damage to these tissues can be from either overuse or a sudden injury. Most cases can be managed non-surgically. Our physiatrists can evaluate you and determine the optimal plan of care, whether it involves physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery.

Is the most common form of physical disability. An estimated 90 percent of all Americans will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. Despite recent advances in diagnosis and treatment, low back pain remains the second leading cause of work absenteeism. Studies show that early aggressive treatment of back injuries results in quicker recovery and fewer lost work days. Treatment by physiatrists centers on various combinations of exercises individualized to each particular patient based on their diagnosed problem. Additionally, medical rehabilitation of low back pain may include various medications, and minimally invasive injections or other procedures, and a treatment focus on improving and maximizing function and quality of life as much as relieving pain. Our physiatrists are fellowship trained in treating back problems and aim for a rapid return to life and work for all our patients.

Treatment for any neck injury is recommended as soon as possible to minimize the danger of further aggravation and chronic pain. There are very broad and general approaches to the treatment of neck pain, but with proper diagnosis, a more problem focused treatment can be initiated. Our physiatrists are expert in developing an individual treatment plan for you that maximizes function and quality of life while striving to minimize the pain. Multiple medical rehabilitative treatment options exist and tailoring treatment to your individual diagnosis and needs allows you to achieve the best outcome possible. 

Pinched nerves are a common source of pain. Examples include carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a pinched nerve in the wrist, cubital tunnel syndrome, which is a pinched nerve in the elbow, and sciatica, which is a pinched nerve in the back or buttock. Our physiatrists can evaluate you and determine if further testing, such as electromyography and nerve conduction studies (EMG / NCS) are needed. Nerve problems can often be treated with therapy or ultrasound-guided nerve blocks or hydrodissection. If surgery is required, our physiatrists can refer you to the correct specialist.

Ultrasound (US) is a valuable tool that physicians can use for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. US has two big advantages over other imaging modalities such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. First, there is no radiation, so it is completely safe in children and in pregnancy. Secondly, it is done in real-time, allowing for dynamic evaluation to assess the movement of tendons and nerves. If your symptoms are severe enough that you need an injection, US allows for precise needle placement.