Dr. Alan Ka Ho Tam – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Alan Ka Ho Tam is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, ON, Dr. Tam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Tam 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. Tam 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. Alan Ka Ho Tam earned a Medical Degree in 2011. Subsequently, Dr. Tam completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Tam brings valuable clinical experience to their practice. Dr. Tam's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Tam is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Tam's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques; collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. Tam provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Alan Ka Ho Tam addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Specialized care to optimize recovery and prevent re-injury in athletes of all levels.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Guiding recovery and functional restoration after orthopedic or neurosurgical procedures.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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.
• 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.

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.

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

• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Leading a rehabilitation team to ensure all aspects of a patient's recovery are addressed cohesively.
• 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.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Goal-oriented rehabilitation planning to help patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized rehabilitation to help patients with spinal cord injuries achieve their maximum potential for independence.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Tam. 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. Alan Ka Ho Tam 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. Alan Ka Ho Tam'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. Tam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Tam expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of the ongoing pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia impacting every part of their life. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play, means they can happily and comfortably get back to walking around their neighborhood or a park comfortably.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of experiencing pain or weakness that doctors haven't been able to diagnose easily, Dr. Tam offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach learning techniques to prevent re-injury or a worsening of their condition. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of using their prosthetic limb with skill and confidence.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Tam when they first notice their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment, enabling them to once again enjoy bending down or kneeling without severe discomfort without hesitation.
• Dr. Tam provides dedicated support for patients going through trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition, always aiming for positive outcomes like improved cognitive function, such as memory and concentration, after a brain injury, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as engaging in light exercises like swimming or cycling.

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

Dr. Tam's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, is situated in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Spadina House (nearby) and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

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

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Tam 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. Tam has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need a physiatric assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

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

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

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Tam 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 from injury or illness. They use non-surgical treatments, including medication, therapeutic exercise, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Tam 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. Tam focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates skeletal muscle electrical activity, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Tam 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 nerve or muscle problems, guiding treatment.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Tam 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. Tam are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in Ontario, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive 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.

Unit Suite 210, 550 University Avenue, Suite 210
Toronto, ON, M5G 2A2

Phone: (416) 597-3422

Dr. Alan Ka Ho Tam 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: 95165

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Tam-Alan-Ka-Ho/0272776-95165

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