Tyler Shirel, MD

Tyler Shirel, MD is a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Physician and Assistant Professor at the Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine. We spoke to Dr. Shirel to learn about his work as a physiatrist at the Weinberg Family Cerebral Palsy Center, and how he gained interest in working with people with cerebral palsy.

1. Why did you choose to specialize in PM&R?

I actually started medical school thinking that I would become a general pediatrician. It wasn't until my 3rd year of medical school that I did a PM&R rotation at the VA (Veterans Affairs) focusing on veterans with spinal cord injuries that I fell in love with this field. The approach that PM&R has to patient care including a team centered foundation and truly getting to know your patients over a long-term basis really spoke to me and I changed my entire career course! As a PM&R resident at the University of Colorado, I was able to complete a rotation in pediatric rehabilitation at Colorado Children's Hospital where I fell in love with pediatrics again and chose to pursue a fellowship in Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine that has eventually led me to Columbia!

2. How and when did you gain an interest in working with people with CP?

My primary interest in Cerebral Palsy came while working at Gillette Children's for my fellowship. I was lucky enough to see and be trained at such a wonderful institution and see so many incredible children and adults with cerebral palsy. After seeing and witnessing so many inspiring stories of how resilient these children and adults can be, I wanted to continue to help as my career progressed.

3. What sort of treatments does a PM&R physician provide for patients with CP?

As a physiatrist, we really are "function" doctors and we try and help our patients be as independent as possible.  At appointments with us, we will focus on tone management and discuss different muscle relaxants such as Baclofen or injections with Botulinum Toxin. We will also discuss how and if school or work needs to be modified, orthotic needs, equipment needs (standers, wheelchairs, bathchairs, etc), home environment, social supports, among others.

4. As a PM&R physician, what other providers do you work with when caring for CP patients?

We typically work with three other specialties on a regular basis. This includes Orthopedic Surgery, Neurology, and Neurosurgery. As our patients are often overlapping, we all assist in our own ways and are in constant communication to help them and suit their needs! 

Learn more about Dr. Shirel here.