What is a PM&R Doctor? 

PM&R stands for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. PM&R doctors can help when something happens to a person’s brain or body that impacts how that person thinks or moves. PM&R doctors often treat patients who have a change in their nervous system (brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles) or bones. 

PM&R will focus on maximizing your child’s function, including their:

  • Ability to move around.
  • Navigate their home, school, and community.
  • Be independent in their self-care, learning, and playing! 

The PM&R doctor works with your oncology and neurosurgical teams during and after your treatment for your child’s brain tumor to strengthen their nervous system.

What can PM&R do for your child?

  • Manage symptoms associated with your child’s treatment plan, such as pain, mobility impairments, muscle weakness, and spasticity. 
  • Work with your therapy team in developing an appropriate exercise or therapy program.
  • Prescribe braces or orthotics to support your child’s joints.
  • Prescribe medications to help with muscle tone, pain, and cognition. 
  • Assist with return to school and other activities.
Laura Black headshot.
Laura Black, MD, MPH

How will PM&R work with your medical team?

The PM&R doctor discusses your child’s symptoms with the oncology team to help monitor their treatment plan. The oncology team may modify or add to the treatment plan based on the PM&R doctor's recommendations. Together, the PM&R doctor and your medical team work to aid your child’s recovery and provide your child with their needed supports.

Contact Information:

Email address: STRONGprogram@KennedyKrieger.org

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