Reasons for Consultation or Referral to PM&R

Editor: Jacob Perrmann, MD

Reviewed by Clausyl Plummer, MD

Section Editor: Bailey Frey

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physicians focus on restoring function and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Toxicity: Hyperalgesia and neuroexcitatory effects (AMS, myoclonic jerking, seizures).

Benefits of PM&R consults include:

  • Recommendations for pts with: Spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, polytrauma, CVA, amputation, burns, critical illness/acute polyneuropathies or myopathies, or prolonged hospitalization
  • Co-management for acute or chronic spasticity, neurogenic bowel and bladder, autonomic dysreflexia, paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity associated with brain injury, contractures, wound care including pressure wound insight and/or prevention
  • Assistance with gait impairments of uncertain etiology impacting post-acute care disposition safety
  • Confirmation and facilitation of post-acute rehab disposition (Skilled Nursing Facility -SNF vs Inpatient Rehabilitation -IPR)
  • Help identifying equipment required for discharge
  • Provision of bedside MSK ultrasound-guided diagnostic joint aspirations and injections of small and large joints, bursa, and peripheral nerve (lateral femoral cutaneous, carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel)
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