Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Alicante

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), also called physiatry, is a medical specialty that aims to enhance and restore the functional ability to a person who has been disabled as a result of an injury, disease, or disorder. The main goal is to help patients become as functional and pain-free as possible, as well as to help them enjoy their lives as fully as possible.

A physician who has completed training in physiatry is known as a physiatrist. They will assess and assure that their patients are medically stable to participate in therapies. A variety of disorders and diseases can be managed by physiatrists, particularly conditions of the joints, muscles, bones, and central or peripheral nervous system that affect a person’s ability to function. However, many physiatrists also specialize. While physiatrists do not perform surgery, they are qualified to perform numerous diagnostic tests and treatments. Some of the most common procedures they can do are as follows:

• Physical examinations
• Imaging studies
• Therapeutic exercise
• Nerve conduction studies (NCS)
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Peripheral joint injections
• Fluoroscopy guided procedures
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound
• Trigger point injections
• Spasticity management
• Interventional spinal therapeutics.

In some cases, physiatrists may also perform acupuncture, platelet-rich plasma injections, prolotherapy, and autologous stem cell treatments. They can also prescribe specific exercise programs, as well as assistive and adaptive equipment, such as prescribing proper orthoses. They are trained to lead and coordinate care with the rehabilitation team, including, but not limited to, physical therapy, recreational therapy, occupational therapy, internal medicine, and psychiatry. 

How Long Should I Stay in Alicante?

Since the treatment plan is designed specifically for the individual needs of the patient, the length of stay in Alicante can be different for each person. For some diseases and disorders, such as stroke and chronic pain, a two to four weeks stay may be needed. During your stay, you may need to see your physiatrist 5 to 6 days a week at most. 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

There is usually no recovery time after you finish your treatment program, though you may be asked to gradually increase your activity level over time. However, this can be different depending on the condition, injury, disease, or disorder you have. Your physiatrist will give you a detailed recovery timeline, including when you can return to your normal routine.

What Aftercare is Required?

You will most likely be given specific instructions on how to care for yourself, speed up your recovery process, and avoid further complications. If you are given an exercise program to carry out at home, make sure to do this as directed. For some diseases or disorders, regular checkups may be needed. You can usually choose to do the checkups with your local doctor in your home country if you prefer.

What's the Success Rate?

Due to the comprehensive nature of their training and the broad spectrum of conditions treated, physiatrists can design and adapt to new technologies. This means that, with continuous research and advancement of physical medicine and rehabilitation, the treatment program is now safer and more successful than ever.

Are there Alternatives?

The alternatives to physical medicine and rehabilitation depend on your disorder, disease, or injury. In most cases, there is no other alternative than to see a physiatrist to help you recover. However, for some conditions, such as back pain, you may be able to see other medical professionals, such as chiropractors. Still, ensure you consult with your doctor beforehand.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in and around Alicante

About Alicante

Alicante is a city in Spain known for its historic Mediterranean port, castle, old quarter, and sandy beaches. It is also popular for its exciting eating scene and legendary nightlife. Due to the city’s resorts and attractions, the city is very much influenced by tourism. Home to numerous top-quality, world-renowned medical facilities, it is also one of the most popular destinations for medical tourism in Spain. Almost all of the medical facilities in the city have top-level medical professionals who specialize in the use and application of the most advanced medical technologies in all branches of medicine. Added to this is the city’s affordable medical costs that allow international medical tourists to save 30% to 70% of their money. Also, the city’s strategic location makes it very accessible for foreign patients.

Popular Parts of Alicante

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alicante offers a wealth of activities for anyone who wants to have fun under the sun. The most popular beach in the city is San Juan de Alicante, which offers fine, golden sand and clear blue waters. On this beach, visitors can try kayaks, yachts, surfing, or even scuba diving. Another popular beach is Playa del Postiguet where visitors can relax and sunbathe. Beyond its beaches, Alicante has many other attractions. One of the most popular is the old town as it is filled with beautiful architecture; art museums, a cathedral, and stunning narrow streets. The city also has numerous historic sites and museums, such as Castell de la Santa Barbara, Museu de la Ciutat d’Alacant, Basilica de Santa Maria, and Museum de Belles Arts Gravina.

Transport in Alicante

Visitors will arrive at Alicante–Elche Airport, which is the fifth-busiest airport in Spain and operates international flights to and from numerous cities in Europe. To get around the city, the tram and bus are the most affordable options. Both have expansive networks that stop at key locations. Taxis are also available, regulated, and relatively affordable. Those who stay in the old town can get around on foot since most areas of interest are within walking distance.

Visas in Alicante

Spain is a member of the Schengen Convention. Therefore, citizens of 62 countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United States, are granted visa-free entry and can stay for up to 90 days. Other countries need to apply for a visa prior to traveling. 

Weather in Alicante

The weather in Alicante is pleasant all-year-round, due to its location on the Mediterranean coast. The summers are hot and the winters are mild. During the hottest months of the summer, July and August, the temperatures rarely drop below 30°C. However, the refreshing and cooling breeze of the Mediterranean Sea makes it endurable. In the winter, the temperatures can drop to 8°C. Autumn and spring are both pleasant.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The euro is the official currency and 1 EUR is approx. = 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are easily available. Credit and debit cards can be used for most purchases and tipping is optional.
3. Local Language: The official language is Spanish. Many people can speak good English. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: The largest religion is Catholic Christianity, but there are also small groups of Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, and several other religions.
5. Public Holidays: Some of the most important public holidays are New Year’s Day, Day of Murcia, and Christmas Day.