Dr. Jerry Sobel: Education & Career Overview

Dr. Jerry Sobel | Pain Management Doctor in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Jerry Sobel is a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist. This specialty is also known as Physiatry. Want to know more see below.

Undergraduate

University of Michigan (1977-1980)

Graduate

University of Michigan Medical School (1980-1984)

Post Graduate

Oakwood Hospital, Dearborn, MI- Internship (1985-1986)

National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, D.C.- Residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (1988-1991)

Board Certification

American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation- 1992

Work History

  • Assistant Professor, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio,TX

  • New England Baptist Hospital, Boston, MA

  • New England Spine Care Center, Boston, MA

  • Functional Restoration Associates, Dallas, TX Associate Medical Director- Productive Rehabilitation Institute of Dallas for Ergonomics- PRIDE, Dallas, Texas

  • The Physiatry Medical Group/SOAR, Redwood City, CA

  • Stanford Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA

  • Medical Director- RESTORE/NovaCare Functional Restoration Program, Cupertino, CA

  • Honor Health- Shea Campus

  • North Valley Surgical Center

  • Sobel Spine and Sports, Phoenix, AZ - opened April 2010

What is a Physiatrist?

Physiatrists, or physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, play a crucial role in the healthcare field. They specialize in helping patients recover from injuries and manage chronic conditions that affect their ability to move and function. Here's a more detailed explanation of their role and expertise:

  1. Physiatrists are trained medical doctors. They evaluate patients to diagnose the cause of pain, disability, or limited movement. Common conditions include back pain, arthritis, spinal cord injuries, and neurological disorders.

  2. Physiatry focuses on non-surgical treatment. This includes physical therapy, medications, and interventional procedures like injections.

  3. Many physiatrists specialize in pain management. Their goal is to reduce chronic pain and improve quality of life — whether the cause is musculoskeletal, nerve-related, or otherwise.

  4. Physiatrists work closely with physical therapists to create customized rehabilitation plans. These help patients regain mobility, strength, and independence after injury or surgery.

  5. Some physiatrists specialize in sports medicine. They help athletes prevent and recover from injuries so they can return to their sport safely.

  6. Physiatrists take a whole-person approach to care. They consider both the physical and personal impact of a condition, and collaborate with other specialists when needed.

In summary, physiatrists are medical specialists who are dedicated to improving the function and well-being of individuals dealing with pain, injuries, or disabilities. They do so through non-surgical treatments, rehabilitation, and a patient-centered approach to care.

Female wheelchair athlete representing sports injury rehabilitation at Sobel Spine and Sports Phoenix AZ