Dr. Alice Sau Han Kam – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Alice Sau Han Kam is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, ON, Dr. Kam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Kam 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. Kam 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. Alice Sau Han Kam earned a Medical Degree in 2009. Subsequently, Dr. Kam completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Kam brings valuable clinical experience to her practice. Dr. Kam's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Kam is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Kam's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Kam is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Chinese.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Alice Sau Han Kam 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.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Symptom Management & Functional Rehab: Helping manage symptoms such as fatigue, spasticity, weakness, and balance problems in individuals with MS to maintain function and independence.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.
• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.

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.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: Addressing persistent pain that affects multiple body regions, often associated with conditions like fibromyalgia or central sensitization.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Kam, 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: Creating multidisciplinary treatment strategies involving therapies, assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications to optimize recovery and function.
• 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.
• Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., MS, Parkinson's): Managing symptoms and functional limitations associated with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, ALS, and muscular dystrophies.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• 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. Kam. 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. Alice Sau Han Kam 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. Alice Sau Han Kam'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. Kam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Kam about a sports injury that's keeping them off the field is to attain regaining strength and function in an injured limb. 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.
• Dr. Kam provides dedicated support for patients going through not being able to return to work because of their physical limitations, always aiming for positive outcomes like successfully navigating the challenges of a new diagnosis with expert guidance, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as going up and down stairs without significant difficulty or pain.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of difficulty participating in family activities due to physical limitations, Dr. Kam offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their functional goals being met through a tailored rehabilitation program. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of engaging in activities that bring them joy and a sense of purpose.
• Understanding the frustration numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away can cause, Dr. Kam tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve greater endurance and less fatigue during physical activity, allowing for renewed participation in activities like keeping up with friends or family during outings.

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

Dr. Kam's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, is situated in the Kensington Market, Chinatown, Grange Park neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Scotiabank Arena (nearby) and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

Dr. Kam 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. Kam's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the quality of life for her patients.

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

Your first appointment with Dr. Kam will begin with a comprehensive assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, a description of your current symptoms, how these symptoms affect your daily life, and any previous treatments you've received. Dr. Kam will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the relevant systems (musculoskeletal and/or neurological). Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) or test results will be reviewed. Following this evaluation, Dr. Kam will discuss her findings, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working collaboratively with you to set functional goals.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Kam is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Their primary goal is to improve functional ability, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life for people with physical impairments or disabilities. Treatment approaches are non-surgical and may include medication, therapeutic exercise programs, injections (where appropriate), and coordination of comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Kam 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. Kam are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in Ontario, provided you have a valid health card and the appropriate referral (if required by the plan or clinic). 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 for materials or facility use. It is advisable to inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and to check with your private insurance provider, if applicable, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

Unit Suite 110, 399 Bathurst St, Suite 110
Toronto, ON, M5T 2S8

Phone: (416) 603-2581

Dr. Alice Sau Han Kam 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: 91421

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kam-Alice-Sau-Han/0258381-91421

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