Dr. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at Health Sciences North in Hamilton, ON, Dr. Rodriguez is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Rodriguez is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in ON. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Rodriguez focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. The goal is to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities.

Dr. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez earned a Medical Degree (from a university in Dominican Republic), graduating in 1993. Subsequently, Dr. Rodriguez completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Rodriguez brings valuable clinical experience to her practice. Dr. Rodriguez's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Rodriguez is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Rodriguez's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques; empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan. Dr. Rodriguez is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Spanish.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

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): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Developing rehabilitation plans to optimize outcomes following surgeries like total knee/hip replacement, rotator cuff repair, or spinal fusion.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Treating localized muscle pain and trigger points characteristic of myofascial pain syndrome.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Addressing soft tissue inflammation around joints to relieve pain and restore normal movement.

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

• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Goal-oriented rehabilitation planning to help patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with TBI improve cognitive function, physical abilities, and psychosocial adjustment.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Expert prescription and monitoring of analgesic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and medications for neuropathic pain or spasticity.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Developing individualized pain management plans to reduce suffering and improve daily functioning for patients with chronic pain.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Rodriguez. 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. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Health Sciences North, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Rodriguez frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For individuals troubled by experiencing pain or weakness that doctors haven't been able to diagnose easily, Dr. Rodriguez's approach is focused on delivering a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like cooking their own meals and managing household chores with a healthier smile.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their knee pain stopping them from climbing stairs or kneeling with Dr. Rodriguez's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to being able to participate more fully in family and social life and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy lifting and carrying their young child or pet once more.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Rodriguez about pain that keeps them awake at night is to attain enhanced ability to manage spasticity or muscle stiffness. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like feeling confident enough to try new physical activities within their capacity.
• When feeling generally weak and deconditioned after a long illness starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to remembering appointments and managing daily schedules after a brain injury, Dr. Rodriguez and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by optimized recovery after surgery or a major medical event and a return to comfort and confidence.

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

Dr. Rodriguez practices at Health Sciences North, situated in the Hamilton North End, Beasley neighborhood of Hamilton. The clinic is conveniently located near Hamilton Farmers' Market and is accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Rodriguez for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Rodriguez has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need a physiatric assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Rodriguez treat various conditions, including the 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. Dr. Rodriguez focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Rodriguez 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. Rodriguez are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided the patient has a valid health card and an appropriate referral if required by the plan or clinic. However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain types of injections, assistive devices, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with Health Sciences North about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly and well electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Rodriguez might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves (radiculopathy), 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 further treatment.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Rodriguez at Health Sciences North?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive assessment including a discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Rodriguez will perform a thorough physical examination, review any prior imaging or test results, and discuss diagnostic impressions, further investigations (if needed), and treatment options. You will work together to establish functional goals.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Rodriguez is a medical doctor 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. They use non-surgical treatments including medication, therapeutic exercise programs, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

Health Sciences North
237 Barton Street East
Hamilton, ON, L8L 2X2

Phone: (905) 521-2100

Dr. Flor Maria Muniz Rodriguez 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: 76945

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Muniz-Rodriguez-Flor-Maria/0183972-76945

A referral from a family physician or another specialist may be required to see Dr. Rodriguez. Dr. Rodriguez 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.