Dr. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, ON, Dr. Siva is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Siva 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. Siva 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. Siva serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva earned a Medical Degree in 2014. Subsequently, Dr. Siva completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Siva brings valuable clinical experience to their practice. Dr. Siva's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Siva is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Siva's medical practice philosophy include: a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery; empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Siva is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Tamil.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Helping patients manage the symptoms of various arthritic conditions affecting mobility and quality of life.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.
• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: A comprehensive approach to managing complex and diffuse pain that significantly impacts daily life.
• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Addressing chronic pain conditions caused by nerve injury or disease.

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

• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: Thorough evaluation of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional status, including detailed history, physical examination, and review of imaging/diagnostic tests.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Comprehensive care for spinal disorders, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and prevention of recurrence.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized rehabilitation to help patients with spinal cord injuries achieve their maximum potential for independence.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized care for athletes with musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and safe return to sport.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Managing pain and dysfunction related to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and other joint conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Siva. 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. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva 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. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva'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. Siva frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Overcoming or effectively managing feeling like their body just isn't recovering properly after an accident is a common journey for patients under Dr. Siva's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling regaining strength and function in an injured limb, so that daily routines and pleasures like managing their assistive devices efficiently become straightforward again.
• If numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away is preventing you from fully enjoying performing household repairs or light maintenance tasks or causing discomfort, Dr. Siva offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their functional goals being met through a tailored rehabilitation program through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their child having movement difficulties due to cerebral palsy or another condition at Dr. Siva's practice is consistently achieving a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as playing with their children or grandchildren on the floor.
• With Dr. Siva's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing feeling generally weak and deconditioned after a long illness is focused on achieving restoration of more normal sensation in areas affected by neuropathy. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to returning to their job or volunteer work without dental concerns.

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

Dr. Siva's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, is situated in the Church and Wellesley neighborhood, conveniently located near St. Lawrence Market. The clinic is easily accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

The first visit with Dr. Siva will typically involve a comprehensive assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the nature and timeline of your current symptoms, how these symptoms impact your daily activities and quality of life, and any previous treatments. Dr. Siva will then perform a thorough physical examination, which may focus on the musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles, spine) and/or neurological system depending on the presenting problem. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) or test results will be reviewed. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Siva will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Siva treat a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Examples include 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. Siva focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Siva 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. Siva are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided you have 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 for materials or facility use. It's always best to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and to check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Siva 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. Siva might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to help diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves (radiculopathy), carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders. These tests help pinpoint the location and severity of nerve or muscle problems, guiding further treatment.

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

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

What should I bring to my appointment with Dr. Siva?

Bring your provincial health card (e.g., OHIP card), the referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications (including dosage and frequency for prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, CT scans – reports are often more useful than just the images themselves initially), and any pertinent test results. If applicable, also bring comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s), and any braces, splints, or assistive devices you currently use.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Siva 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 or illness. 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.

15 Wellesley St W
Toronto, ON, M4Y 0G7

Phone: (416) 413-7999

Dr. Ahilraj Sivapathasuntharam Siva 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: 104250

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Siva-Ahilraj-Sivapathasuntharam/0295160-104250

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