Why Researchers Choose American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation for High-Impact Publications
The American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation stands as a cornerstone in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation, providing a dedicated platform for groundbreaking research that enhances patient outcomes and promotes accessibility. Established in 1922 as the Archives of Physical Medicine and renamed in 1988, this journal has evolved into a vital resource for clinicians, researchers, and educators focused on restoring function and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Published by Wolters Kluwer, it reaches a global audience through its rigorous peer-reviewed articles, case reports, and reviews that address the complexities of rehabilitation sciences.
Researchers are drawn to the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation for its commitment to evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. The journal covers a wide array of topics, from neuromuscular disorders to assistive technologies, ensuring that studies on disability and accessibility services find a receptive home. Its emphasis on clinical relevance makes it particularly appealing for those seeking to translate research into practical applications that benefit diverse populations, including veterans, athletes, and aging individuals. With a history rooted in the Association of Academic Physiatrists, the journal fosters advancements that align with evolving healthcare needs, such as post-stroke recovery and chronic pain management.
Publishing here offers researchers the opportunity to contribute to a publication with a solid reputation for quality and innovation. The journal's editorial team, comprising experts from leading institutions, ensures that accepted manuscripts undergo thorough scrutiny, enhancing their credibility. For scholars in disability and accessibility services, this venue provides not only dissemination of knowledge but also networking opportunities through its annual meetings and special issues. As rehabilitation science continues to intersect with technology and policy, the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation remains at the forefront, encouraging submissions that push boundaries in therapeutic interventions and inclusive design.
To explore career opportunities in this dynamic field, consider browsing rehabilitation faculty positions or checking the academic calendar for upcoming conferences.
Overview & History
The American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation traces its origins to 1922, when it was founded as the Archives of Physical Medicine by the American Congress of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Over the decades, it has chronicled the growth of physiatry as a medical specialty, adapting to advancements like electrodiagnostics and prosthetic innovations. Today, it serves as the official journal of the Association of Academic Physiatrists, published monthly by Wolters Kluwer. This evolution reflects the journal's dedication to integrating basic science with clinical practice, making it indispensable for professionals in disability services.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses research on physical medicine, rehabilitation, and related fields, emphasizing functional restoration and accessibility. Key areas include musculoskeletal disorders, neurological rehabilitation, and pediatric physiatry. Below is a table outlining the primary disciplines:
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical Medicine | Focuses on diagnosis and non-surgical treatment of musculoskeletal issues. |
| Rehabilitation Sciences | Covers therapies for restoring mobility and independence post-injury or illness. |
| Disability Studies | Explores accessibility, assistive devices, and policy impacts on disabled populations. |
| Neuromuscular Medicine | Addresses disorders like ALS and spinal cord injuries through rehab strategies. |
| Pain Management | Investigates interventional techniques for chronic pain in rehab contexts. |
Key Journal Metrics
The American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation maintains strong metrics that underscore its influence in the field. These include citation rates and publication speed, vital for researchers evaluating submission options. The following table summarizes essential metrics:
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 2.019 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.3 | Clarivate |
| CiteScore | 4.2 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | 25% | Publisher data |
| Time to First Decision | 4 weeks | Journal site |
Indexing and Abstracting
Articles in the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation are indexed in major databases, ensuring wide visibility. It is covered by PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL, facilitating citations and accessibility for global researchers. This indexing supports discoverability in disability and rehab literature, with links to abstracts available on the official journal homepage.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription access and open access options. Authors can publish open access via the APC of $3,230 USD, covering production and dissemination. Traditional subscription ensures broad library access, while waivers are available for low-income countries per Sherpa/RoMEO policies. This flexibility aligns with funding requirements in accessibility research.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the Editorial Manager system on the journal's site. Authors must adhere to CONSORT guidelines for clinical trials and ICMJE recommendations for authorship. Prepare manuscripts in double-spaced format with abstracts under 250 words. Review the author guidelines for details on figures and ethics. Initial checks occur within days, followed by peer review.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board features distinguished physiatrists from institutions like Mayo Clinic and University of Pittsburgh. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Gary L. McLynn leads with expertise in neurorehabilitation. Members include specialists in sports medicine and geriatrics, ensuring diverse perspectives on disability services.
Why Publish in American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation?
Publishing here elevates research visibility, with articles often cited in clinical guidelines. The journal's focus on practical implications benefits authors in tenure tracks, and its association with academic physiatrists opens collaboration doors. For those in disability fields, it provides a platform to influence policy and practice. Explore Rate My Professor for insights from peers in rehab academia.
Comparison with Similar Journals
The American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation compares favorably with peers in scope and metrics. The table below highlights key differences:
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation | 2.019 | Comprehensive rehab | Wolters Kluwer |
| Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation | 3.1 | Broader PM&R | Elsevier |
| PM&R | 2.5 | Clinical physiatry | Wiley |
| Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine | 2.8 | European focus | Foundation for Rehab Info |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on innovation in accessibility. Use clear, concise language and include diverse patient data. Engage with recent issues for trends, and consider co-authoring with board members. For career advancement, pair publications with disability services positions. Always check the academic calendar for deadlines.