Clinical Guidance

Quality & Practice

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Evidence-Based Guidance to Support Physiatric Care

American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) develops clinical guidance to support physiatrists and interdisciplinary care teams in delivering high-quality, evidence-based and patient-centered rehabilitation care. Our clinical guidance translates scientific evidence and clinical expertise into practical direction that reflects real-world physiatric practice.

What Is AAPM&R Clinical Guidance?

AAPM&R clinical guidance provides structured, actionable direction for the evaluation and management of conditions commonly encountered in rehabilitation medicine, with a focus on function, participation and quality of life.

How Clinical Guidance Is Developed

AAPM&R clinical guidance is developed through structured and transparent processes that may include:

Identification of high-priority clinical needs relevant to physiatry

Engagement of multidisciplinary subject matter experts

Review and synthesis of available scientific evidence

Deliberative discussion balancing evidence, clinical experience, patient values and feasibility

Iterative refinement to ensure clarity and usefulness in practice

Current AAPM&R Clinical Guidance

AAPM&R has developed clinical guidance addressing the following topic areas:

Long COVID / Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC)

Spasticity

Platelet-Rich Plasma for Knee Osteoarthritis (in development)

How to Use AAPM&R Clinical Guidance

AAPM&R clinical guidance is intended to inform—not replace—clinical judgment. Clinicians should consider individual patient circumstances and available resources when applying guidance in practice.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

AAPM&R is committed to advancing rehabilitation care by developing new clinical guidance and updating guidance as evidence and clinical practice evolve.