Dr. Karen Marguerite Smith

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Karen Marguerite Smith addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of CRPS (formerly RSD), a chronic pain condition typically affecting an arm or leg after an injury or trauma.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: Developing strategies to cope with and reduce the burden of chronic widespread pain.
• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Utilizing medications, interventional techniques, and therapies specifically targeted at nerve-related pain.

Neurological Conditions

• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation for individuals who have experienced an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Comprehensive care for individuals with limb loss, including pre-prosthetic management, prosthetic prescription, gait training, and adjustment to life with a prosthesis.
• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Rehabilitation programs to address generalized weakness, fatigue, and loss of function following prolonged illness, hospitalization, or inactivity.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Addressing various causes of back and neck discomfort through physiatric assessment and treatment.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Addressing soft tissue inflammation around joints to relieve pain and restore normal movement.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Smith, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Utilizing botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®) injections to reduce muscle spasticity and improve range of motion in conditions like stroke, cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injury.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Optimizing pharmacological treatments to provide effective pain relief while minimizing side effects and risks.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Expert diagnosis and management of axial and radicular pain originating from the spine.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Non-operative care for joint disorders, including therapeutic injections, bracing, and exercise prescription.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Goal-oriented rehabilitation planning to help patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Smith. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment and referral where appropriate. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Karen Marguerite Smith adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Karen Marguerite Smith's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Smith frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Smith with concerns about trouble with their memory and concentration after a head injury. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve being able to manage their condition proactively to maintain their gains, making a positive and lasting return to remembering appointments and managing daily schedules after a brain injury not just possible, but highly feasible.
• For individuals troubled by feeling very stiff and having trouble moving because of their Parkinson's, Dr. Smith's approach is focused on delivering being able to manage their symptoms with less reliance on pain medication. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like performing household repairs or light maintenance tasks with a healthier smile.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed needing guidance on exercises that are safe and effective for their condition with Dr. Smith's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to gaining the skills and support needed to live a more active and fulfilling life and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy managing their energy levels better throughout the day once more.
• If the frustration of not being able to do the hobbies they once loved due to pain or disability has unfortunately put their child being able to keep up with friends during playtime on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Smith works closely with patients towards attaining better management of their chronic condition, leading to an improved quality of life, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

Your personalized rehabilitation plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Smith, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional goals. Dr. Smith is committed to empowering patients with the expertise and support needed to achieve their highest possible level of independence and well-being.

Dr. Smith's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Kingston, is situated in the Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighborhood of Kingston. The clinic is conveniently located near Hotel Dieu Hospital Site and is accessible via Kingston Transit. Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

What does a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist like Dr. Smith do?

A Physiatrist like Dr. Smith is a medical doctor (physician) specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Their primary goal is to enhance and restore functional ability, reduce pain, and improve quality of life for people with physical impairments or disabilities from injury (e.g., sports injuries, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury), illness (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, arthritis), or chronic pain. They use non-surgical treatments including medication, therapeutic exercise programs, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Smith at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Smith will involve a comprehensive assessment: a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Smith will perform a thorough physical examination (musculoskeletal and/or neurological systems). Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Smith will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Smith covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP))?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. Smith are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in ON, with a valid health card and appropriate referral (if required). However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at our clinic?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Smith. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation.

What are some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. Smith treats?

Dr. Smith treats various conditions, including consequences of stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (including concussion), sports injuries, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), chronic low back and neck pain, peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and conditions requiring amputation rehabilitation. The focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

How often will I need to see Dr. Smith for follow-up appointments?

The frequency of follow-up appointments depends on your condition, treatment plan, and progress. Initially, visits might be more frequent. As your condition stabilizes or improves, follow-ups may become less frequent. Dr. Smith will recommend a schedule tailored to your needs.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Smith recommend them?

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates electrical activity in skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Smith might recommend these to diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders. These tests help pinpoint the location and severity of nerve or muscle problems, guiding treatment.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Physiatrist (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist) like Dr. Smith?

In ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. This ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Smith has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need a physiatric assessment.

752 King Street West
Kingston, ON, K7L 4X3

Phone: (613) 544-4900

Dr. Karen Marguerite Smith is a licensed Physiatrist in ON, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 51790

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Smith-Karen-Marguerite/0037814-51790

A referral from a family physician or another specialist may be required to see Dr. Smith. Dr. Smith and the team are committed to providing comprehensive care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.