Physiatrists treat a broad range of conditions.  The focus of the specialty is on restoring function to people.  Acute and chronic pain from musculoskeletal disorders and spinal problems are the most common conditions we treat.  A physiatrist may see a person who lifts a heavy object and experiences back pain, a basketball player who sprains an ankle and needs rehabilitation to play again or a knitter who develops carpal tunnel syndrome.  Physiatrists’ patients include people with arthritis, tendonitis, back and neck pain and work related and sports related injuries.