A physiatrist practices in the field of physiatry – also called physical medicine and rehabilitation – which is a branch of medicine that specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and management of disease primarily using “physical” means, such as physical therapy and medications. Essentially, physiatrists specialize in a wide variety of treatments for the musculoskeletal system – the muscles, bones, and associated nerves, ligaments, tendons, and other structures – and the musculoskeletal disorders that cause pain and/or difficulty with functioning. Physiatrists do not perform surgery.
Is Degenerative Disc Disease Hereditary? What Genetics Have to Do With It
Learn how genetics, age and lifestyle affect degenerative disc disease risk and when to see a spine specialist for an evaluation.
July 23, 2026
