Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Marbella

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 Marbella?

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

About Marbella

Marbella is a city and a municipality located in southern Spain. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, the city is one of the most cosmopolitan beach resorts in the country. It is particularly famous for its beaches with fine sand and clear blue water. Today, Marbella has become a preferred destination for medical tourism. The city is filled with a great variety of hospitals and clinics offering high-class services, from beauty and wellbeing to major medical treatments such as oncology and traumatology. All the private hospitals in the city now have a department that works exclusively to attract international patients. These hospitals all provide luxurious services and round the clock care. International medical tourists will feel as if they are staying in a 5-star hotel instead of a hospital. Furthermore, these hospitals are staffed with highly-skilled doctors and specialists.

Popular Parts of Madrid

Marbella’s biggest draw is its beaches, including Nagüeles Beach and El Ancón Beach, where people can sunbathe, swim, or even enjoy water sports activities. Most of the beaches are also lined with amazing beach bars to eat or drink while escaping the heat. Beyond its beaches, Marbella also has a significant historical heritage. The most popular area to visit is the old quarter (Casco Antiguo), which is packed with beautiful Andalucian and Moorish architecture, ornately painted tiles, balconies full of flowers, and narrow streets. Visitors can also find numerous churches and chapels. In the heart of the old quarter is Plaza de Los Naranjos, a square where visitors can find the city hall, restaurants and bars, renaissance architecture, and orange trees. 

Transport in Madrid

Málaga Airport is the nearest airport to Marbella. It has both domestic and international flights to many cities in Europe and is serviced by numerous airlines. Those who want to get around with public transportation are provided with a network of seven local bus lines, which is relatively affordable and will get visitors too many places around the city. Taxis are available and official rates are displayed inside the licensed taxi. Visitors who stay in the downtown area can get around by foot easily since the area is fairly compact.

Visas in Madrid

Spain is a part of the Schengen Convention, meaning citizens of 62 countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the US, do not need a visa to visit and stay in Marbella for up to 90 days. Holders of passports issued by other countries not listed in the visa-free agreement need to apply and obtain a visa prior to arrival.

Weather in Madrid

Marbella experiences a Mediterranean climate with about 320 sunshine days each year. The summer in the city is hot, while the winter is typically mild. During the hottest months, July and August, the temperatures can soar to 30°C, but the breeze of the Mediterranean Sea will make the hot temperatures bearable. December to January is somewhat rainier than the rest of the year.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The local currency used in Marbella is the Euro. 1 EUR converts to approx. 1.12 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available around Marbella. Credit cards are accepted in most businesses and tipping is expected in some places.
3. Local Language: The Spanish spoken in Marbella is Andalusian Spanish. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Christianity is the largest religion in Marbella. However, other religions are also freely practiced.
5. Public Holidays: New Year's Day, Andalucía Day, San José, Spanish National Day, and Christmas Day are some of the most important public holidays in the city.