Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Switzerland

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 Switzerland?

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

About Switzerland

Switzerland is a landlocked country located in Europe and is famous for its chocolate and clocks; this country offers its visitors beautiful landscapes, medieval towns, modern art, avant-garde culture, and Alpine tradition. From the Swiss Alps and the Jura Mountains to Renaissance-era allegorical statues and medieval architecture, Switzerland provides an unforgettable experience for everyone. Today, the country is popular with medical tourists who travel here for top quality elective surgery and dentistry. The healthcare system is world-renowned and beyond impressive, with highly qualified doctors and staff who work in ultra-modern hospitals and clinics. According to the WHO, Switzerland’s public health services system is one of the most effective in the world. A full range of advanced medicine and technology are available here, from heart surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, to oncology. 

Popular Cities and Regions in Switzerland

Most medical tourists travel to Bern, the de facto capital of Switzerland. Here, tourists can walk around the historic town center that is brimming with churches, cobblestone streets, medieval clock towers, and well-preserved sandstone homes. The main attractions in this city are Zentrum Paul Klee and Kunstmuseum. Besides Bern, Zürich is a famous destination for medical tourists. Set on the beautiful Zurich Lake, this city offers many amazing medical centers and tourist attractions. It’s a culturally vibrant city that is recognized as one of the most liveable cities in the world. Tourists are welcome to visit Fraumüster, explore Schweizerisches Landesmuseum, and admire art at Kunsthaus. Along with Bern and Zürich, Geneva is also popular. It has the world’s largest fountain, a historic city center, and spectacular views of Lake Geneva.

Transport in Switzerland

Zurich Airport is the main gateway to Switzerland. It serves regular scheduled and charter flights to and from numerous cities in Europe, North America, and Asia. Public transport in the country is comprehensive. Trains are comfortable and scenic, and buses take over where the rails run out. Taxis and Uber are available to travel inside cities.

Visas in Switzerland

As a part of the Schengen Agreement, Switzerland allows citizens of 62 countries, including Australia and the US, to stay in the country without a visa for up to 90 days. Nationals of most other countries are required to have a Schengen visa to enter the country. 

Weather in Switzerland

Winter (November – March) is cold and snowy, with an average temperature of 5 to 10°C in Zurich. It’s a popular time for tourists who want to ski. Spring (April – June) has warmer weather, although some areas still experience snowfall. Summer (July – August) brings perfect and warm weather, with an average temperature of 27°C. Autumn (September – October) is still warm but the days are becoming shorter.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). 1 CHF is equivalent to 1.04 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs can be found easily and major credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) are widely accepted. Tipping is not necessary. 
3. Local Language: Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. Most of the population speaks excellent English, especially those in major cities. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: The predominant religion is Christianity, which has been present in the country since the Roman Era. The country guarantees full freedom of religion, and Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, as well as other religions are practiced by a small portion of the population. 
5. Public Holidays: Switzerland has several public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Berchtold's Day, Corpus Christi, Immaculate Conception Day, and Christmas Day.