Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, BC, Dr. El-Sayed is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. El-Sayed is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in BC. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. El-Sayed 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. El-Sayed serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed earned a Medical Degree from Midwestern University Arizona College Of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2017. Subsequently, Dr. El-Sayed completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 8 years of practice since 2017, Dr. El-Sayed's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Additionally, the Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist holds qualifications/certifications such as: Other certification recognized by the College Registration Committee; American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Certified. Dr. El-Sayed is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. El-Sayed'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; collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. El-Sayed is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Arabic.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Neurological Conditions

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Long-term care and rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, addressing paralysis, spasticity, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and other complications.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs aimed at improving memory, attention, executive function, balance, and emotional regulation after brain injury.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Managing acute or chronic pain in the lumbar, thoracic, or cervical spine due to disc issues, arthritis, muscle strain, or stenosis without surgery.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Chronic Widespread Pain: Addressing persistent pain that affects multiple body regions, often associated with conditions like fibromyalgia or central sensitization.
• 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.
• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Managing pain arising from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system, such as diabetic neuropathy, post-herpetic neuralgia, or radicular pain.

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

• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Addressing inflammatory and degenerative joint conditions to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Leading a rehabilitation team to ensure all aspects of a patient's recovery are addressed cohesively.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized care for athletes with musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and safe return to sport.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Expert diagnosis and management of axial and radicular pain originating from the spine.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. El-Sayed. 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. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed'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. El-Sayed frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• At Dr. El-Sayed's clinic, addressing needing to learn how to use a prosthetic limb effectively means focusing on patient goals. Achieving learning effective strategies to cope with chronic pain or disability helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to driving their car independently.
• With Dr. El-Sayed's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing recovering from a major surgery and needing help to get moving again is focused on achieving successfully adapting to using an assistive device or prosthesis. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to participating in their favorite sports or fitness activities without dental concerns.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of a 'pinched nerve' in their neck or back causing shooting pains, Dr. El-Sayed offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of maintaining their balance while standing or walking.
• Dr. El-Sayed's comprehensive care for wanting to explore options for pain relief beyond just medication is meticulously designed to result in feeling heard and supported throughout their treatment journey. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as focusing on their studies or work without constant pain distraction without dental worries.

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

Dr. El-Sayed's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the UBC Campus Proper neighborhood. Conveniently located near 'The Drive' Neighbourhood, the clinic is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

What are some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. El-Sayed treats?

Dr. El-Sayed treats 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), various sports injuries, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), chronic low back and neck pain, peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and conditions requiring amputation rehabilitation. Dr. El-Sayed's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

What should I bring to my appointment with Dr. El-Sayed?

Please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC card), your referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications (including dosages and frequencies), 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. Comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s) is also recommended, as are any braces, splints, or assistive devices you currently use.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. El-Sayed covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. El-Sayed are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and an 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 your private insurance coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. El-Sayed at the clinic?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. El-Sayed will perform a thorough physical examination focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological systems, depending on your needs. Prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. El-Sayed will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. El-Sayed recommend them?

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates muscle electrical activity, while Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure the speed and efficiency of electrical signals in nerves. Dr. El-Sayed might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions like 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 treatment.

What does a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist like Dr. El-Sayed do?

A Physiatrist like Dr. El-Sayed is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, 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, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

2553 Wesbrook Mall, UBC Sports Medicine Clinic
Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3

Phone: (604) 822-3614

Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim El-Sayed is a licensed Physiatrist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: J0794

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/377210/El-Sayed%2CAhmed

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