Physiatrist (PM&R Doctor) vs. Physical Therapist: Who Should You See?
If pain, stiffness, or mobility problems are slowing you down, it can be hard to know where to start—with a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) doctor or a physical therapist. Both focus on reducing pain and improving movement, but their training, scope of care, and roles in treatment are different.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right provider—and know when seeing both may be the best approach.
What Is a PM&R Doctor?
Also called a physiatrist, a PM&R doctor is a medical physician (MD or DO) who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the muscles, joints, nerves, and spine.
A PM&R doctor can:
- Diagnose musculoskeletal and neurological conditions
- Order and interpret imaging and diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRI, EMG)
- Prescribe medications
- Perform procedures such as joint injections or nerve blocks
- Create a comprehensive, non-surgical treatment plan and evaluate the need for surgical referral
PM&R doctors often coordinate care with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists to address both pain relief and functional recovery.
What Is a Physical Therapist?
A physical therapist (PT) is a licensed healthcare professional with advanced training in movement science and rehabilitation. Most hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.
Physical therapists focus on restoring movement and function through:
- Personalized exercise programs to improve strength and flexibility
- Balance, posture, and coordination training
- Manual therapy and guided stretching
- Education on injury prevention and long-term movement health
Unlike PM&R doctors, physical therapists do not prescribe medications, order imaging, or perform injections.
Key Differences Between PM&R Doctors and Physical Therapists
While both aim to reduce pain and improve mobility, their roles are distinct:
Scope of Care
- PM&R doctors: Medical evaluation, diagnosis, and interventional treatment
- Physical therapists: Hands-on rehabilitation and movement retraining
Treatment Approach
- PM&R doctors: Address underlying medical causes such as inflammation, nerve compression, or joint disease
- Physical therapists: Focus on rebuilding strength, flexibility, and functional movement
Visit Structure
- PM&R visits: Evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning
- PT visits: Longer, active sessions centered on exercise and manual therapy
Follow-Up Care
- PM&R doctors: Periodic visits to adjust medical or procedural care
- Physical therapists: Frequent sessions over several weeks to support recovery
When to See a PM&R Doctor
A PM&R doctor may be the best starting point if you:
- Have severe, worsening, or unexplained pain
- Need a diagnosis or advanced imaging
- May benefit from medications or injections
- Have complex conditions involving the spine, nerves, or multiple joints
- Are recovering from neurological injury or surgery
When to See a Physical Therapist
A physical therapist may be appropriate if you:
- Already have a diagnosis and need structured rehabilitation
- Are recovering from surgery or a known injury
- Want to improve strength, flexibility, or balance without medication
How PM&R Doctors and Physical Therapists Work Together
At CLS Health, physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) doctors and physical therapists work as a team. Your PM&R physician evaluates your condition, manages pain, and addresses medical factors—then collaborates with a physical therapist to help you safely rebuild strength, mobility, and confidence.
This integrated approach treats both the source of pain and the limitations it causes.
Which Provider Is Right for You?
If you’re still unsure, consider:
- Severe or unclear symptoms → Start with a PM&R doctor
- Need for diagnosis, medication, or injections → PM&R doctor
- Rehabilitation and movement goals → Physical therapist
Start Your Recovery With the Right Specialist
Whether you need a PM&R doctor for diagnosis and medical treatment or a physical therapist for hands-on rehabilitation, CLS Health offers coordinated care—so you don’t have to navigate recovery alone.
