What is PM&R and what is a physiatrist?

Physiatrists maximize what a patient can do and assist the patient in adapting to what he or she cannot. A physiatrist should be consulted when pain, weakness, or disability is preventing a patient from achieving their desired level of independence. Pain management and rehabilitation, PM&R is a physiatrist's specialty, and deals with restoring functional mobility and quality of life to patients with disabilities and other chronic conditions.

What kind of conditions can a physiatrist treat?

Physiatrists are able treat an expansive amount of conditions from minor headaches to post-surgical pain. Some conditions include---but are not limited to---chronic pain, chronic regional pain syndrome, 

I don't like pills or needles what are my options?

We utilize a multi-disciplinary approach including physician-guided home exercises, oral or topical medications, injections, or minimally invasive surgical interventions. Based on your needs and wants, we can tailor an individualized plan for improvement.

What kind of treatments are offered?

We offer a range of treatments and services such as PRP and Stem cell injections, steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, sacroplasty/kyphoplasty, epidural injections, botox injections for migraines, medical marijuana, varicose vein correction, and a variety of medications as well as home-exercises. Being a multi-disciplinary clinic, we have the ability to perform aesthetic procedures as well. Take a look at our services page for more extensive information and a wide array of treatments. 

When should I see a physiatrist?

Physiatrists have a broad knowledge of the body and its inner workings. Seeing a physiatrist is similar to seeing a primary care physician who specializes in treating musculoskeletal problems. They can treat your entire body as well as assist you with psychological, emotional, and physical ailments, giving thorough medical advice. If you are in pain for any reason, and it is affecting your quality of life, you should consider paying a visit to a physiatrist.

I'm in extreme pain, but I don't want to get addicted to medication, what do I do?

Some pain medications aren't effective while others are not. Often times there are several generators contributing towards the patient's overall pain. Several classes of medications may be utilized such as anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxers, nerve medications and opioids.

My pain is not constant. Some days I feel no pain. Should I still tell someone?

You should always consult with your primary care doctor and yes one may benefit from a specialist referral. It it is important to find the cause of ones pain or symptomology through a thorough history, physical examination, diagnostic testing to develop a multidisciplinary treatment plan.

What can I do on my own at home to decrease my pain?

Depending on the type of pain one has physician guided home exercises, meditation, guided imagery and dietary modification can help with chronic pain.

Can a brace do more damage than good?

A brace helps to restrict movement in a particular direction aand may take the place of some appear muscles that may exacerbate or worsen symptoms. You should always consult your doctor prior to starting to wear her brace and how long to wear her brace.

What is the most effective/best treatment for pain?

Treatment varies from patient to patient, and Dr. Johar believes that treatment should be tailored to the individual. He will devise a treatment plan that is customized to the patient's unique experience and needs.

What is better? Hot compress or an ice pack?

This dependence in the situation and cause of pain. The hot compress or moist heat will cause dilation of the capillaries and increased blood flow to a particular area. Ice packs or cold packs constricted capillaries and reduced blood flow to an area and inflammation.

How often do I need to go to the doctor?

This varies based upon the acuity of your situation. The patient will come in for an initial consultation that will last 45 minutes to an hour and follow-up visits should last 15-45 minutes. After a procedure or starting a new medication, 
follow-up is usually within 1 week, otherwise between 4-6 weeks.

Can my pain be psychological?

There is certainly a psychological component contributing to chronic pain. There are specialized psychologist and psychiatrist that help patients manage this component of their symptomology.

I'm scared of side effects of medicine - what do I need to know?

With each medication, there are risks and benefits. You will have the opportunity to discuss these with your physician to decide if the positives that with the negatives. 

If your question was not covered in this FAQ, please feel free to use the contact form and tell us your concerns.