Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Pioneering Rehabilitation Medicine since 1950

We advance education, research and clinical care to treat the neurological and musculoskeletal effects of injury, disease and disability.

 PMR Chair and Resident with patient receiving shoulder exam

Our Vision

To be a destination program for patients, learners, and scientists in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation and related disciplines.

Are you a patient or caregiver?

About Us

Learn more about our mission to provide clinical care, train future health care professionals, and conduct innovative research.

People

A diverse spectrum of experts guides our clinical, research and educational programs on the path to excellence.

Education

Discover our highly-ranked programs aimed to train future leaders through exceptional clinical, research and interdisciplinary education.

Patient Care

Delivering comprehensive, collaborative care for patients with complex rehabilitation needs across inpatient and outpatient settings.

Research

We conduct both clinical and basic science research in order to improve health, function and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Giving

Your gift will impact patients’ lives by propelling our ground-breaking work forward.

Doctor using medical device on patient's left wrist

The Leaders and Best in Rehabilitation
#1
Ranked Residency Program in Michigan (2024-25)
#13
Nationally Ranked Residency Program (2024-25)
#6
PM&R NIH Ranking (FF2024)
Rehab specialist sitting with patient

Giving

At the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, we’re driven by compassion, innovation, and a commitment to improving lives. Your gift supports groundbreaking care, discovery, and the next generation of healers.

Learn more about giving to PM&R

Featured News & Stories

 See all news Elderly man stands outside in a snowy neighborhood. He is holding a white mug of coffee in his right hand and has his left hand in a coat pocket. He is staring ahead, presumably taking in the snowy scene around him.
Health Lab

Small daily activities may help ease dementia caregivers’ stress

University of Michigan research suggests engaging in positive activities can improve the mood and physical wellbeing of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia caregivers.
 Woman in blue tank top sits on examining table as doctor in white coat looks at her knee scar.
Health Lab

Second ACL tear brings star athlete back to trusted surgeon

Rugby player plans to get back in the game after two ACL tears that both resulted in surgeries
 Man stands under a basketball hoop, smiling through the net
Health Lab

Torn ACL leads to life changing career direction

Basketball player suffers serious ACL tear, but is back on the court after surgical reconstruction and rehabilitation.
 Elyse celebrates her high school graduation with VanWasshenova
Health Lab

Paralyzed from waist down as a child, patient walks across stage at high school graduation

A tumor on her lower spine paralyzed Elyse Wickenheiser from the waist down as a child. Through successful physical and occupational therapy, she was able to walk across the stage at graduation.
 Libak About with Dr. Kossi, his collaborator from Benin
Department News

Benin collaborator’s visit advances plans for stroke rehabilitation study

Assistant Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Libak Abou recently hosted his collaborator from Benin. They are partnering to adapt wearable technology employed by U-M for use in Benin, where stroke is a leading cause of disability and access to rehabilitation services is limited.
 graphic of red green orange blue close up of inside of body and insides shaking
Health Lab

Pain, psychological factors and physical function closely linked in people with systemic sclerosis

For many people living with chronic conditions like systemic sclerosis, pain can be persistent, unpredictable, and difficult to manage leading to a strong impact on a patient’s mental health.

PM&R Internal Website

Resources and information for current Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation faculty, learners and staff.

PM&R Intranet