Introducing lifestyle medicine residency curriculum into PM&R residency training: Implementation experience and early benefits.

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle medicine (LM) aligns closely with physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), emphasizing holistic, patient-centered approaches to optimize health and function. Despite this synergy, structured LM education within PM&R residencies remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the implementation, feasibility, and early outcomes of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) Lifestyle Medicine Residency Curriculum (LMRC) within a PM&R residency program consisting of 24 residents.

METHODS

An optional LMRC track was introduced in the 2024-2025 academic year, offering 1-year (postgraduate year [PGY]-4) and 2-year (PGY-3) completion options. The curriculum included 40 didactic hours, 60 application hours, and practicum requirements totaling 400 LM-focused encounters. Participation rates, completion status, and resident feedback were recorded. Additionally, an adapted ACLM Lifestyle Medicine Knowledge and Implementation Survey was distributed to all PGY-2-4 residents during the 2025-2026 academic year to assess LM-related knowledge, confidence, and practice behaviors. A descriptive approach was used to examine differences between individuals enrolled in LMRC and those not enrolled.

RESULTS

Seventy-five percent of eligible PGY-3 and PGY4 residents enrolled (n = 12). Among PGY-4 LMRC participants, 50% completed all requirements (n = 3); all PGY-3 participants (n = 6) remain on track for completion. Survey response rate was 88% among all PM&R residents (n = 21). Most respondents reported "some knowledge" of LM (40%), with the highest confidence in physical activity and lowest in nutrition. Individuals enrolled in LMRC self-reported 20.6% higher mean scores in LM overall knowledge and 30.5% higher mean scores in LM overall confidence, compared to those not enrolled.

CONCLUSION

Integrating LMRC into PM&R residency training is feasible and aligns naturally with the specialty's mission. A 2-year structure enhances sustainability, and group learning and institutional support foster engagement. LM education may strengthen residents' holistic care competencies and advance PM&R's focus on lifestyle-driven health restoration.