Physiatrists treat a wide range of problems from sore joints to spinal cord injuries. The focus of the specialty is on restoring function. Physiatrists treat acute and chronic neuromusculoskeletal disorders. They may see a person who lifts a heavy object at work and experiences back pain, a basketball player who sprains an ankle and needs rehabilitation to play again or a knitter who has carpal tunnel syndrome. Physiatrists treat people with “nerve problems”, spine disorders, as well as work and sports-related injuries.