Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Expert Witnesses
Experts in physiatry for a variety of legal matters
Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) is the medical specialty that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and non-surgical treatment of physical disabilities, injuries, and chronic conditions that affect the body's musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems. The field includes using medications, physical modalities, physical therapy, adaptive equipment and assistive technology, occupational therapy, orthotics, prosthesis, and training to maximize functional ability, mobility, and quality of life.
Physicians who specialize in this field are called physiatrists or sometimes rehab medicine specialists. In the United States, physiatrists must hold a medical degree (MD or DO) and complete a four-year residency program in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Board Certification in physical medicine is administered by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR). Sub-specialties within physiatry include:
- Brain Injury Medicine
- Hospice and Palliative Medicine
- Neuromuscular Medicine
- Pain Management
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine
- Spinal Cord Injury Medicine
- Sports Medicine
The broader field of physical medicine and rehabilitation includes various allied health professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, and nurse practitioners.
The role of a physiatrist as an expert witness
Physiatrists can be important expert witnesses in a variety of personal injury and workers’ compensation matters. They are well-equipped to assess the impact of an injury on a person’s physical function, including their ability to perform activities of daily living and work-related tasks. Physiatrists can explain the scope and cost of treatment needed to help an injured person recover from their injuries and maximize their quality of life. Physiatrists can also testify about pain, discomfort, and other effects of an injury on the injured person.
In addition, physiatrists can offer expert opinions on the causes of injuries and the mechanisms of injury. Of course, in matters involving physiatry malpractice, they can also explain the applicable standards of care and opine whether the defendant met that standard.
The best in physical medicine to assist the legal community
The nature of physical medicine means it is an essential component of many legal matters that deal with long-term and permanent injuries – matters that often have very high financial stakes. The Rieback Medical-Legal Consultants network includes experienced, Board-Certified physiatrists who are prepared to offer compelling testimony in depositions and at trial. Reach out to us for a free case summary review today.