Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Goyang

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 Goyang?

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

About Goyang

Goyang is a city in Gyeonggi Province, located in the north of South Korea. The city is a part of the Seoul Capital Area, which makes it one of Seoul’s satellite cities. It is one of the largest cities in the Seoul Capital Area and is one of the most popular with medical tourists who seek high-quality healthcare in South Korea. The hospitals and clinics in this city provide total medical care performed by expert medical teams who use the highest level equipment and cutting-edge technologies. There is a wide range of medical procedures offered in this city. From specialized cancer diagnosis and treatment, dental treatments, specialized spine treatments, oriental medicine, skincare, and plastic surgery are all available. 

Popular Parts of Goyang

Goyang offers numerous things for visitors to see and do. Most tourists usually flock to Lake Park, which is the largest manmade lake in the East and it has a park around it where people can take walks and enjoy the air. In the corner of the park is the famous Musical Fountain, which beams beautiful lights and pumps water with the music, and visitors are free to enjoy the wonderful scenery and music. Those who love Korean food and want to learn more about Kimchi should go to Kimchi School. Goyang Oulim Nuri Arts Center is the best place to go to experience the city’s culture. It has a playhouse, theater, and art gallery. It also has various sports facilities. Other popular attractions in the city are Haengju Sanseong, Baedagol Theme Park, KINTEX, and Lafesta. 

Transport in Goyang

International visitors usually arrive at Incheon International Airport, then continue by bus or train in order to visit Goyang. Incheon International Airport is the main airport in South Korea that serves international and domestic flights. Inside the city, the best way to get around is by metro. There are several subway lines in the city and the trains are comfortable and affordable. Taxis are available and are reasonably priced. 

Visas in Goyang

Holders of passports issued by 112 countries, including the EU, Canada, the US, and Russia, are allowed to visit and stay in Goyang for 30, 60 or 180 days. Nationals of other countries not listed in the visa-free entry should apply and obtain a visa prior to their arrival.

Weather in Goyang

Like the rest of South Korea, Goyang experiences four seasons. The winter starts from November to March and the temperatures can be very cold. During cold spells, the temperature can drop to -20°C. Spring brings warmer temperatures, but rainfall becomes more frequent. Summer, from June to August, can be hot and rainy, but the weather is generally nice. From September to late November is autumn, which has pleasant weather.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency:  South Korean Won (KRW) is the official currency. 1 USD is equivalent to approx. 1,185 KRW.
2. Money & Payments:  ATMs can easily be found around the city and credit cards are accepted at most establishments. Tipping is normally not expected and can be considered rude in some restaurants. However, you can tip guides and porters.
3. Local Language: The official language is Korean and Hangul is the formal script. Many people will speak a little English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Most of the population is not religious or follows indigenous religions. Buddhism and Christianity are two of the most widely practiced religions.
5. Public Holidays: Goyang celebrates several public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and the Birthday of Buddha.