Andrew Rudins, M.D.
Andrew Rudins, M.D., specializing in Orthopedic Medicine.
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Board-Certified
Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Board-Certified
Sports Medicine, Fellowship Trained
Medical Acupuncture
Andrew Rudins, M.D., received his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia, after completing his undergraduate studies at Duke University. Dr. Rudins performed his Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency at the renowned Mayo Clinic, after which he received further training in sports medicine at the University of Hawaii, and in medical acupuncture at UCLA. He practiced with an orthopedic group in New Hampshire and with SSE Orthopedic Rehabilitation in Las Vegas prior to coming to Asheville.
Dr. Rudins is board-certified by both the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and the American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and is a 15-year member of the American College of Sports Medicine. He has published and given numerous lectures on biomechanics, back pain, foot problems and sports injuries. Dr. Rudins has provided medical care for athletes ranging from professional, such as at the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon, to local and amateur, including serving as a team physician for the University of Hawaii. He himself is a marathon runner, and speaks fluent Russian.
About Physiatry and the practice of Dr. Rudins
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation(PM&R), or "physiatry," is a medical specialty in which physicians treat a variety of primarily non-surgical neurologic and orthopedic conditions. The training to become a physiatrist is extensive. After completing four years of medical school, an additional four years of residency training is required. This includes elements of orthopedics, neurology, rheumatology and applied biomechanics. Dr. Rudins has also completed additional training in sports medicine. Many physiatrists maintain a general practice, which can include the rehabilitation of conditions such as stroke and spinal cord injury, as well as more common neck and low back pain.
Dr. Rudins specializes in the evaluation and rehabilitation of a variety of non-surgical orthopedic conditions resulting from a large number of injuries, including neck and low back pain, pinched nerves (both in the spine and extremities), overuse injuries (such as tendinitis and plantar fasciitis), knee and shoulder pain, and foot and ankle sprains. In addition to a detailed history and physical examination, Dr. Rudins uses imaging studies (i.e. X-ray, MRI, etc.) and nerve tests (NCS/EMGs) when indicated to better define the diagnosis and plan an effective treatment program. He works closely with therapists, coaches and the individual patient in developing an appropriate therapy, exercise or training program. To assist in recovery and rehabilitation, a combination of medications, injections, bracing or medical acupuncture may also be used. Most importantly, however, education and counseling should form the foundation for maximizing a person's recovery. As a rule, Dr. Rudins generally avoids the use of narcotic pain medication, particularly in chronic situations, but does work with several pain physicians that do use these forms of medications when medically necessary.
