Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Physiatrist are trained to practice medicine holistically with the goal of utilizing traditional and alternative medical practices to improve patients’ function and quality of life.

Management of many musculoskeletal and neurological disorders non-surgically. Restoring a patient’s quality of life and lifestyle.

We Use Physiatry to Treat Pain

What is Physiatry?

Physiatry or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is a unique branch of medicine that takes a holistic approach to patient care. Physiatry focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of many disorders that produce temporary or prolonged pain or functional impairment. The goal is to maximize independence and mobility returning patients to their daily activities with less pain.

Learn more: “What is Physiatry” | “About Physiatry”

Benefit 1

Comprehensive approach to many medical disorders

Benefit 2

Traditional and Complementary & Alternative medicine

Restore Function

Many injuries and illness lead to acute and chronic functional impairments. With many treatments, physical function can be improved and restored to improve daily function.

Improve Quality of life

Returning to your prior level of functioning with less pain often improves overall quality of life and feeling of well being.

Testimonials

What Patients Say About Us

“I felt like time was taken to understand my issues. After doing some work up, I was given a referral for physical therapy and started medical management and acupuncture. I feel amazing and back in the gym more regularly.”

“I have used acupuncture in the past and have had a wonderful result with Alternative Medicine Physicians group. It is working well for my elbow and shoulder pain and am very excited that I am back to playing tennis.”

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“She is very thorough and listens to you. She discusses everything with you and allows you to ask questions. She takes the time to explain the problem and gives options for managing them.”

Medical Services

See The Difference

At Alternative Medicine Physicians Group, the team focusses on collaborative treatment options for those dealing with many forms of musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction. An evidence-based approach to non surgical treatments of many disorders. After a thorough evaluation, a detailed discussion about the present concerns, diagnoses and treatment options will be completed, allowing for an informed decision regarding your specific needs and goals.

A holistic and collaborative approach to your physical medicine needs.

Frequently Asked Questions?

What is Acupuncture and How Does It work?

Acupuncture works by targeting specific points along meridians—pathways that channel energy (or "qi") throughout the body. With around 350 acupuncture points identified, practitioners insert fine needles into these areas to restore balance and promote healing. The treatment aims to correct imbalances in energy flow that may contribute to illness, helping to alleviate pain and improve overall well-being.

How Did Acupuncture become popular in the USA?

Acupuncture became popular in the U.S. in the 1970s, largely due to James Reston, a New York Times journalist. After having his appendix removed in China in 1971, he experienced discomfort and found relief through acupuncture. Impressed by the results, he wrote an article titled "Now, About My Operation in Peking," which sparked significant interest in acupuncture in America. This increased awareness coincided with a broader movement towards alternative medicine, leading to acupuncture's acceptance as a complementary therapy.

What is an acupuncture treatment like?

Describing an acupuncture treatment can be challenging due to the variety of styles used and ailments that are targeted. Typically, 3-15 very thin needles are gently placed into specific points on your body; they should not cause significant discomfort and usually become unnoticeable within seconds. Many patients report feeling slight tingling or warmth at the insertion sites. The needles usually remain in place for 15-30 minutes while you relax and allow the treatment to take effect. Additionally, electrical stimulation can be applied to the needles to enhance the treatment's effects.

Is there a risk of infection with acupuncture?

The use of disposable sterile needles reduces the risk of infection.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

- Our goal is to reduce the intensity, frequency, and duration of pain. Increase range of motion and improve function and general feeling of wellbeing. - As with all conditions, there are many factors involved in making a treatment plan. On average, the number of acupuncture treatments range from 4-20 treatments weekly or bi-weekly for the condition to fully resolve.

Looking For A Holistic Approach In Washington DC?

Meet Dr. Candice Peters

Dr. Peters specializes in non-operative management of a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders.

A native of the Maryland/DC area, Dr. Peters earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine. She completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Howard University Hospital and completed her residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

While training at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Peters additionally completed acupuncture training for physicians at the Helms Acupuncture Institute through UCLA. After completing her postgraduate training, Dr. Peters returned to Maryland, specializing in reducing pain and improving her patients’ physical function using traditional and alternative medicine.

She is licensed and certified by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and is a member of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

Candice A. Peters, MD

Hours of Operation

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