Mustapha Kemal, MD, is a physiatrist who cares for people with physical disabilities stemming from muscular or neurological conditions. His areas of interest are management of spasticity, including Botox injections and management of Intrathecal Baclofen pumps, chronic back and neck pain, and EMG/NCV studies. He is currently taking new patients in his practice.
Dr. Kemal believes that improving a patient’s function and quality of life is at the heart of physical medicine and rehabilitation. He says, “The specialty encompasses a number of ailments and illnesses. However, an explanation in one sentence is that physiatrists help patients manage their physical disability due to muscular or neurologic illnesses. Modern medicine has added years to life, and as physiatrists we endeavor to add life to those years.”
He finds fulfillment in guiding individuals through their rehabilitation journey. “I love sitting down with patients to hear their story, get to know them, and be an important part of their journey towards recovery,” he says. “Watching a patient regain their strength, adapt to challenges, and find hope again is something that never loses its impact. As a physiatrist, I get a front row seat to a patient’s recovery, which is the primary reason for me choosing this specialty.”
As an assistant professor in the Division of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Yale School of Medicine, he will be working closely with Yale University medical students and residents and his colleagues.
Dr. Kemal explains that the ever-evolving nature of medicine inspires him to remain curious and compassionate. “It pushes me to stay curious, to keep learning and balance cutting-edge treatments with compassion. No two days are the same, and that unpredictability keeps me engaged and purposeful,” he says. “I value the privilege of being present at some of the most vulnerable and meaningful moments in a person’s life. It’s about listening, understanding, and connecting in a way that patients find relatable and reassuring.”
Dr. Kemal earned his medical degree from King Edward Medical University in Pakistan. He completed his residency training in physical medicine and rehabilitation from the University of Pennsylvania, where he was the chief medical resident during his training.
