Dr. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at Michael Garron Hospital in Toronto, ON, Dr. Cheng is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Cheng 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. Cheng 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. Cheng serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng earned a Medical Degree in 1999. Subsequently, Dr. Cheng completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Cheng brings valuable clinical experience to his practice. Dr. Cheng's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Cheng is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care. Key aspects of Dr. Cheng's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence; 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. Dr. Cheng provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

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: Helping athletes recover from injury, regain strength and flexibility, and safely return to their sport.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Comprehensive non-operative care for spinal pain, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and preventative strategies.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Diagnosing and treating inflammation of tendons (tendonitis/tendinopathy) and bursae (bursitis) in areas like the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, or ankle.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A multimodal approach to complex pain conditions involving muscles and connective tissues.

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.
• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Helping amputees achieve optimal function, comfort, and independence with their prosthetic devices.

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

• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Specialized nerve testing to identify conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy (pinched nerves), peripheral neuropathy, and muscle diseases.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Expert diagnosis and management of axial and radicular pain originating from the spine.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Targeted injections to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Cheng. 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. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

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

• For individuals troubled by difficulty swallowing or speaking clearly after a neurological event, Dr. Cheng's approach is focused on delivering learning effective strategies to cope with chronic pain or disability. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like playing with their children or grandchildren on the floor with a healthier smile.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a 'pinched nerve' in their neck or back causing shooting pains at Dr. Cheng's practice is consistently achieving finding non-pharmacological ways to manage their pain effectively. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as enjoying a walk on uneven ground or nature trails.
• For patients where numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away is a primary concern, Dr. Cheng focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in being able to participate more fully in family and social life. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully participating in rehabilitation therapies actively and effectively.
• Managing their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Cheng and the dental team. The clear aim is always a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying participating in their favorite sports or fitness activities and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

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

Dr. Cheng's practice is located at Michael Garron Hospital in the Golden Mile, Clairlea, Oakridge neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Queen's Park and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Cheng at Michael Garron Hospital?

Your first visit with Dr. Cheng 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. Cheng 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. Cheng will discuss his diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Cheng is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of 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 the quality of life for people with physical impairments or disabilities resulting 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.

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

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

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Cheng 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. Cheng are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided you have a valid health card and 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 Michael Garron Hospital 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 some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. Cheng treats?

Dr. Cheng treats a variety of 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. Cheng focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

Michael Garron Hospital
3276 St Clair Avenue East, Department of Psychiatry
Toronto, ON, M1L 1W1

Phone: (416) 285-3619

Dr. Albert Sau-Shan Cheng 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: 73994

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Cheng-Albert-SauShan/0158603-73994

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