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Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation program at Monroe Carell is dedicated to optimizing function for children, adolescents and young adults living with disabilities. Our specialists work closely with experts in pediatric neurology, rehabilitation and primary care. We create a treatment plan that is right for your child and family based on the services and supporting therapies you need. Together, we develop both short-term and long-term plans designed to restore as much function and independence as possible for the infants, children and adolescents we serve.

What is physical medicine and rehabilitation?

Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) – also known as physiatry or rehabilitation medicine – aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons. A physician having completed training in this field is referred to as a physiatrist. Their goal is to maximize the patient’s independence in activities of daily living.

Conditions We Treat

We manage functional differences for pediatric patients due to a wide range of conditions, including:

Meet Your Care Team

Carrie A. Donnell

Carrie A. DonnellMSN, CPNP

    Inpatient Pediatric Medicine, Maltreatment & Child Abuse, Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Elizabeth Martin

Elizabeth MartinMD

    Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
M Elise McClanahan

M Elise McClanahanMD

    Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Sarah M. Moran

Sarah M. MoranDPT, PT

    Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Robert J. Rinaldi

Robert J. RinaldiMD

    Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Why Choose Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Vanderbilt

  • social, Collaborative care, people, conference, Team, staff, partners
    Multidisciplinary care plans

    We and other experts at Monroe Carell work with primary care doctors and specialists to provide the best care possible to our youngest patients. We identify your child's immediate need and create a personalized plan for long-term wellness. Comprehensive physical medicine and rehabilitation can improve your child's function and quality of life, restore independence and promote physical healing. Many of our multidisciplinary clinics have embedded PM&R specialists who address your child’s needs as they work with their primary care provider.

  • family, parents, child, Patient-centered care, healthcare
    Family-centered care

    Our family-centered care plans include realistic priorities and goals for your child and family. They foster wellness and participation across your child’s lifespan, including the transition to adulthood.

  • medical chart, clipboard, cross, Knowledge and experience
    Knowledge and experience

    Our specialists have extensive experience treating children recovering from trauma, neurological conditions, orthopaedic conditions, cancer and other illnesses. At Monroe Carell, we have access to a range of expert therapists and other specialists to care for our pediatric patients.

Tests, Treatments and Services

We offer a full range of tests, treatments and services, including:
  • Intrathecal baclofen pump placement
  • Medication management
  • Phenol or alcohol nerve blocks
  • Referrals for adaptive equipment
  • Referrals for rehabilitative services
  • Referrals for specialized orthotics