Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Barcelona

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 Barcelona?

Since the treatment plan is designed specifically for the individual needs of the patient, the length of stay in Barcelona 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 Barcelona

About Barcelona

Barcelona is a city located on the coast of northeastern Spain. It is the second-largest city in the country. This enchanting seaside city charms its visitors with fascinating history and culture, legendary architecture, unique food, beautiful beaches, and upbeat nightlife. Barcelona is also known as the medical capital of Spain. Healthcare in the city is well equipped with technology and human resources. Various hospitals and clinics have their own specialties and are staffed with highly-trained specialists who truly care about their patients. Most people come from cancer treatment, heart and circulation diagnosis, bone treatment, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, as well as full-body diagnostic. 

Popular Parts of Barcelona

Barcelona offers a plethora of things to do and see. Here, visitors can explore Gaudi’s architecture. Gaudi is the city’s most famous architect and his work can be seen everywhere in the city. His method of blending Art Nouveau and Gothic styles is awe-inspiring and made him legendary. In Barcelona, you can also learn more about one of the most influential artists in the 20th century, Picasso. The Picasso Museum in the city is one of the biggest in the world, housing over 3,000 pieces of art, allowing you to learn more about Picasso’s life and craft. The beaches in the city, particularly Barceloneta Beach, is a must-visit. The wide and long stretch of sand is perfect for sunbathing, the water is warm, and there are a lot of excellent restaurants on the boardwalk.

Transport in Barcelona

Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport is the international airport serving Barcelona. It is the second-busiest airport in Spain that connects international flights to numerous cities around the world, such as Beijing, Toronto, and London. Barcelona has one of the best public transport systems in Europe. The metro and tram are fast, cheap, and well-connected. There are many metro stations and it is easy to navigate. The local buses are also great, well-connected, and leave very frequently. Taxis are widely available and are quite affordable.

Visas in Barcelona

Since Spain is a member of the Schengen Agreement, nationals from 62 countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United States, are allowed to visit without a visa and can stay for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries need to apply for a visa prior to their arrival. 

Weather in Barcelona

Winter (December – February) is mild, but different types of weather can occur. The average temperature hovers around 15°C and it is rainier than other seasons. Summer (mid-June – August) is hot, humid, and sunny, with the temperatures reaching 30°C on the hottest days. However, the sea breezes make it more bearable. Spring and autumn are relatively pleasant, but both seasons can be rainy.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the Euro. 1 EUR converts to around 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are available in many areas. Credit cards can be used in most businesses. Tipping can be obligatory in some places.
3. Local Language: Spanish is the official language and many people will be able to speak good English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Christianity is the biggest religion. However, other religions, such as Islam and Judaism, are freely practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Barcelona celebrates numerous holidays, including New Year's Day, Day of Murcia, and Christmas Day.