San Francisco Physiatrists

When injured, we tend to turn to orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists or chiropractors for treatment, knowing that medical doctors usually offer limited options.

The Physicians’ Back Institute is different.

As medical doctors trained in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, the Minkowskys offer the expertise of a doctor, along with skills in hands-on osteopathic manipulative therapy. They go far beyond ordering an MRI and prescribing anti-inflammatory medication.

Get better faster. Make the Physicians’ Back Institute your first stop when injured.

Doctors Irène & Robert Minkowsky are expert in diagnosing and treating complex medical issues that cause pain and loss of function. They specialize in nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal conditions, spine disorders and sports injuries.

The musculoskeletal system is very complex and includes joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons nerves and blood vessels, all surrounded by fascia. All elements must be addressed for successful resolution of a problem.

A thorough comprehensive evaluation precedes an individualized treatment program with emphasis on restoration of musculoskeletal balance, control of pain (principally non pharmacologic) and recovery of function. Their success stems from being thorough and methodical in their approach.

Conditions Frequently Treated Include:

Located in SF, our physiatrists use nonsurgical and nonpharmacologic treatment to resolve musculoskeletal issues.

What Is Manual Medicine?

Manual medicine is a form of treatment for pain relief that involves using the hands to manipulate various parts of the body. It is often used to alleviate pain arising from muscles, joints, and nerves. Manual medicine can be an effective method for managing pain and improving function and overall well-being.

One common form of manual medicine is chiropractic care, which focuses on adjusting the spine and joints to improve alignment and function. Chiropractors use their hands to apply controlled force to the affected areas, which may help alleviate pain and improve mobility. This type of treatment is often used for conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Another form of manual medicine is massage therapy, which involves using the hands to manipulate the muscles and soft tissues of the body. Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. This type of approach may be used to treat conditions such as muscle pain and cramping, sports injuries, and stress.

Manual medicine also includes techniques developed through osteopathy and physical therapy, which focus on improving the function of the musculoskeletal system through hands-on techniques and exercises. These treatments can help neck and spine pain, headache, sciatica and nerve pain as well as digestive issues.

The musculoskeletal system is very complex and includes joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons nerves and blood vessels, all surrounded by fascia. All elements must be addressed for successful resolution of a problem.

Diagnosis & Treatment

As medical doctors trained in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, the doctors at the Physicians’ Back Institute are expert in diagnosing and treating complex medical issues that cause pain and loss of function. They specialize in nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal conditions, spine disorders and sports injuries. They offer the expertise of a doctor, along with skills in hands-on osteopathic manipulative therapy (omt). OMT is a gentle, non-painful manual treatment approach. They go far beyond ordering an MRI and prescribing anti-inflammatory medication which are the usual options offered by traditional medical doctors.

A thorough comprehensive evaluation precedes an individualized treatment program with emphasis on restoration of musculoskeletal balance, control of pain (principally non pharmacologic) and recovery of function. Their success stems from being thorough and methodical in their approach.

Manual medicine can be a valuable tool for managing pain and improving overall health. By using hands-on techniques to manipulate the body, practitioners can help alleviate pain, improve function and mobility, and promote healing. This type of treatment can be a safe and effective option for those seeking pain relief.