FAQs
A physiatrist is a physician who specializes in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R). We focus on restoring function, reducing pain, and improving quality of life through nonsurgical or minimally invasive means—such as targeted injections, EMG testing, spasticity management, and customized therapy plans. We work closely with orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, primary-care providers, and therapists, but our primary goal is functional recovery without major surgery whenever possible.
Most patients can self-refer; however, certain insurance plans (including some HMOs and VA Community Care programs) still require a referral. If you’re unsure, call our front desk at 406-327-4308 and we’ll verify your coverage or help you obtain the proper paperwork.
• Back and neck pain (disc issues, facet arthritis, SI-joint dysfunction)
• Nerve disorders such as carpal tunnel, sciatica, and peripheral neuropathy
• Post-stroke or spinal-cord-injury spasticity
• Migraine and chronic headache (therapeutic Botox)
• Sports, workplace, and overuse injuries
• Amputation and prosthetic management
• Weakness or numbness that requires EMG/NCS diagnosis
If your condition isn’t listed, give us a call—chances are we can help or guide you to the right specialist.
Plan on 60–90 minutes. You’ll complete a health-history questionnaire, then meet with a provider for a detailed exam focused on function, movement, and pain triggers. Please bring:
- a photo ID and insurance card,
- medication list,
- imaging discs/reports (MRI, X-ray, CT) if available, and
- any prior treatment notes you’d like us to review.
Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) evaluate how well your nerves and muscles communicate. Small electrode stickers and, in some cases, fine needles are used to record electrical activity. Most people describe the sensation as mild tapping or quick pinches; discomfort is minimal and resolves immediately after the test.
Yes. Under ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance we perform epidural steroid injections, facet blocks, medial-branch blocks, SI-joint injections, large-joint injections (hip, knee, shoulder), and radiofrequency ablation. All procedures are done in our on-site suite, so you don’t need a separate hospital visit.
Absolutely. We use a combination of therapeutic Botox, phenol nerve blocks, and customized therapy referrals to reduce muscle tightness, ease pain, and improve mobility. During your consultation we’ll outline a personalized spasticity-management plan.
Yes. Our team performs wheelchair and seating evaluations, prescribes orthotics, and partners with local prosthetists to optimize limb-loss care. We also complete Medicare documentation to streamline approvals.
MVPMR accepts most commercial plans, Medicare, Montana Medicaid, Workers’ Compensation, and TriWest/VA Community Care. Because each policy differs, please call 406-327-4308 and we’ll confirm your benefits before the visit.
For FDA-approved indications—such as chronic migraine, cervical dystonia, or post-stroke upper-limb spasticity—most insurers cover Botox after specific criteria are met. Our billing specialists handle prior authorization and will discuss any out-of-pocket cost with you before treatment.
Yes. Follow-up visits, medication reviews, and some functional screenings can be completed via secure video if you are located in Montana. Hands-on evaluations (e.g., injections, EMG) still require an in-clinic visit.
We reserve new-patient slots every week and can usually schedule urgent referrals within 7–10 days. If your condition is rapidly worsening, let our scheduler know so we can triage appropriately.
Call us at 406-327-4308 or use the contact form on our website. Our care team is happy to walk you through next steps and get you on the path to improved function and pain relief.