Andrew Rudins, M.D.
Andrew Rudins, M.D., specializing in Orthopaedic Medicine.
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Board Certified
Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Board Certified
Sports Medicine, Fellowship Trained
Medical Acupuncture
Andrew Rudins, MD received his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia, after completing his undergraduate studies at Duke University. Dr. Rudins performed his 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 has practiced with an orthopaedic group in New Hampshire and with SSE Orthopaedic 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 lectures on biomechanics, back pain, foot problems, and sports injuries. Dr. Rudins has provided medical care for athletes ranging from professional, at the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon, to local 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 & Rehabilitation(PM&R), or "physiatry," is a medical specialty, in which physicians treat a variety of primarily non-surgical neurologic and orthopaedic 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 orthopaedics, neurology, rheumatology, and applied biomechanics. Dr. Rudins has also completed additional training in sports medicine. Many physiatrists maintain a general practice, being involved in 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 orthopaedic conditions, 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. These conditions can occur due to a motor vehicle accident, work injury, or a performing arts or sports injury. In addition to a detailed history and physical examination, Dr. Rudins uses imaging studies (eg. X-ray, MRI, etc.) and nerve tests (NCS/EMGs) when indicated to better define the diagnosis, and plan an effective treatment program. Dr. Rudins works closely with therapists, coaches, and individuals in developing an appropriate therapy, exercise, or training program. To additionally assist in recovery and rehabilitation, a combination of medications, injections, bracing, and medical acupuncture may be used. Most importantly, education and counselling form the foundation for maximizing a person's recovery. Dr. Rudins avoids the use of narcotic pain medication, particularly in chronic situations, but does work with several pain physicians that do use these types of medications.