5 key differences between a physiatrist and a physical therapist

The frequency of visits to the physiatrist will always be much less than the physical therapist. A physical therapist will be the one who would work with the patient every day until they have reached their rehabilitation goals. On the other hand, a physiatrist will visit only at the interval of evaluation or during any emergency. 

Confused between Physiatrists and Physical Therapists, well, you are not alone. Many people get confused between them. Most people think their roles is same. Physiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) specialized in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM & R). While Physical therapists perform the therapies recommended by Physiatrists. Physical therapists are trained in clinical features of common musculoskeletal pathology, examinations, making a treatment plan and exercise regimen. This is the basic understanding of Physiatrists and Physical Therapists functions. In this article, we will understand the differences between a physiatrist and a physical therapist.

Education Differences Between a Physiatrist and a Physical Therapist

The first key difference between the two professions is medical training. While a physiatrist is a licensed, board-certified medical doctor who has completed medical school and a required internship and residency, a physical therapist only studies a three-year post-graduate certification degree in physical therapy. 

Both medical providers know the body’s musculoskeletal system inside and out, but a physiatrist’s extensive training gives them greater in-depth knowledge about the structure and function of the human body. They also have an intimate understanding of how the nervous, cardiovascular and other systems affect the musculoskeletal system. 

A physiatrist has the license to prescribe medications to their patients as well as perform non-surgical therapies. On the other hand, physical therapist don’t have that certification and training. Physical therapists use advanced tools like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and traction, but they have to refer the patient to a Physiatrist for prescription-level therapies.

Role of Physiatrist and a Physical Therapist

A physiatrist takes the leading role in diagnosing, treating and managing musculoskeletal issues. A patient’s MD designs a comprehensive treatment plan based on their findings oversees its execution and assesses its effectiveness. They check in with the patient and their physical therapist at intervals during the patient’s stay to make sure their plan is working. A physical therapist, in such a scenario, is the one who just executes the orders of the physiatrist about the patient’s treatment plan.

Differences between a Physiatrist and a Physical Therapist: Initial Visit

When a patient visits for physical medicine and rehabilitation diagnosis at any health centre, the patient visits the physiatrist and then the physical therapist. As an integral part of the patient’s care team, the physiatrist gathers detailed information from their medical history, physical exam and diagnostic testing during their first visit to formulate a treatment regimen. It is the job of the physiatrist to take a complete look at all facets of a patient’s health before diagnosis and treatment. 

Physical therapist assembles a team of specialist, including the physical therapist after diagnosing the patient’s condition. Then the physical therapist performs some of their assessment such as the strength of the patient, muscle balance, range of motion and all reflexes. 

Differences between a Physiatrist and a Physical Therapist: Diagnosis

A physiatrist uses diagnostic tools such as X-ray, nerve conduction studies and electromyography to identify the underlying medical conditions that require rehabilitation. Your physiatrist looks at your whole health picture and takes co-existing health issues into account to design a treatment protocol. They help you and your physical therapist work around conditions like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and COPD. They also offer a variety of non-surgical techniques for pain management.

Physical Therapist uses the information accumulated from diagnosis by the Physiatrist and carry out their part of the treatment that has to be provided to the patient. They can modify the treatment process only after consulting with the Physiatrist. 

Differences between a Physiatrist and a Physical Therapist: Visits

The frequency of visits to the physiatrist will always be much less than the physical therapist. A physical therapist will be the one who would work with the patient every day until they have reached their rehabilitation goals. On the other hand, a physiatrist will visit only at the interval of evaluation or during any emergency. 

How to become Physiatrist or Physical Therapist in India

Students who want to become physiatrist or a physical therapist must appear for entrance exam, obtain a degree, and complete the training. 

For Physiatrist, you need to appear for NEET UG and after completing MBBS appear for NEET PG. Then pursue MD / DNB in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist (PMR).

For Physical Therapist, you need to complete class 10+2 with PCB and enroll to Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT). Appearing for entrance exam is not mandatory to pursue BPT. However, there are several university specific test and state level test exam to pursue BPT.