Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Madrid

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 Madrid?

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

About Madrid

Madrid is the capital and most populous city in Spain and the city continues to charm its visitors with glorious fashion, amazing food, and lively nightlife. Beyond its culture and beauty, Madrid is also a convenient medical tourism destination, particularly for residents of Western Europe. Many of the best JCI-accredited and high-quality hospitals in Spain are located within this city and these hospitals are well-regarded for high standards, both in terms of staff and facilities. The doctors and medical professionals are highly trained and will make sure to give you the best of care. Furthermore, the city has one of the most affordable healthcare systems on the continent. Popular treatments include orthopedic surgery, dental treatments, and general checkups. Infertility treatments are particularly popular and are attracting medical tourists from all over Europe.  

Popular Parts of Madrid

From amazing masterpieces, upbeat nightlife, amazing local cuisine, to beautiful architecture, there’s plenty to see in Madrid. The most popular area is Plaza Mayor, which is the city’s main square where visitors can stroll around its winding streets to find many churches and tapas bars. This area will give insights into the city’s royal history and architecture. The most popular sites around the plaza are Ayuntamiento and San Pedro. Those who want to learn more about Madrid’s culture should visit the Prado Museum. It is one of the most amazing art galleries in the world displaying the works by the great European masters, such as Raphael, Bosch, Rubens, Goya, and Velázquez. On sunny days, people usually go to El Retiro Park to unwind and relax. 

Transport in Madrid

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is the main airport in Madrid and is the second-largest airport by physical size in Europe. It serves both domestic and international flights to and from numerous major cities around the world. Getting around in Madrid is fairly easy since the city has an effective public transport system. The best way to get around is by the metro, which has an extensive network and will take visitors almost everywhere around the city. Buses are a great option as well, and metered taxis are widely available. 

Visas in Madrid

As a member of the Schengen Area, Spain allows citizens of 62 countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, to visit and stay without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries are required to apply for a visa to be able to enter Madrid and It is highly advisable to check at your nearest Spanish embassy or consulate for the requirements.

Weather in Madrid

Spring (March-May) is one of the wettest times in the city, but it does offer pleasant weather. Autumn (September – October) is also quite pleasant, with the average temperatures hovering around 15°C. Summer (June – August) can be very hot, with the temperatures rising to 37°C on the hottest days. Winter is chilly, with the average temperature dropping to 8°C.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The Euro is the currency and 1 EUR is equivalent to approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: It’s easy to find ATMs in Madrid and credit cards are widely accepted. In some areas, tipping can be expected.
3. Local Language: The official language is Spanish and many people speak good English.
4. Local Culture and Religion: The largest religion is Christianity. However, other religions, such as Islam and Judaism, are also widely practiced.
5. Public Holidays: New Year's Day, Day of Murcia, and Christmas Day are some of the most celebrated holidays in the city.