Dr. Alvin Hoy Ip – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Richmond, BC

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

Dr. Alvin Hoy Ip earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 2016. Subsequently, Dr. Ip completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 9 years of practice since 2016, Dr. Ip's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Additionally, the Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist holds qualifications/certifications such as: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Ip is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ip's medical practice philosophy include: empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan; a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence; collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. Ip provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Alvin Hoy Ip addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Helping athletes recover from injury, regain strength and flexibility, and safely return to their sport.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.

Post Surgical Rehab

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

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs aimed at improving memory, attention, executive function, balance, and emotional regulation after brain injury.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).

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: A multimodal approach to complex pain conditions involving muscles and connective tissues.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Care for conditions such as rotator cuff tendinopathy, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, trochanteric bursitis, and Achilles tendonitis.

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

• Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., MS, Parkinson's): Optimizing function and quality of life for patients with progressive or chronic neurological conditions through tailored therapies and adaptive strategies.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Expert prescription and monitoring of analgesic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and medications for neuropathic pain or spasticity.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Working collaboratively with physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Targeted injections to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Non-surgical treatment for acute and chronic spinal pain, including disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and degenerative conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ip. 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. Alvin Hoy Ip 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. Alvin Hoy Ip'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. Ip frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of trouble with their memory and concentration after a head injury, Dr. Ip offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of attending social gatherings and community events with confidence.
• Patients experiencing a 'pinched nerve' in their neck or back causing shooting pains often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Ip's practice, a key objective is improved bladder and bowel control, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in walking around their neighborhood or a park comfortably.
• Dr. Ip's comprehensive care for a sports injury that's keeping them off the field is meticulously designed to result in gaining the skills and support needed to live a more active and fulfilling life. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child being able to participate more fully in school activities without dental worries.
• For those affected by feeling very stiff and having trouble moving because of their Parkinson's, Dr. Ip provides solutions that lead to a clear understanding of their condition and a personalized rehabilitation plan. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to communicating their needs clearly if they have speech difficulties.

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

Dr. Ip's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Richmond, is situated in the West Richmond (Terra Nova, Thompson) neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Garden City Lands Park and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

Does Dr. Ip work with other healthcare professionals as part of a rehabilitation team?

Physiatrists like Dr. Ip often work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive rehabilitation care. This team may include physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, social workers, kinesiologists, orthotists/prosthetists, and other medical specialists. Dr. Ip typically coordinates with these professionals to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to the patient's recovery and functional improvement. Patients can ask Dr. Ip about the team members who might be involved in their care at the clinic or through referral.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Ip 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. Ip 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.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Ip treat a wide range of conditions, including 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. Ip focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Ip 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. They use non-surgical treatments including medication, therapeutic exercise programs, targeted injections (where 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. Ip?

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

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

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

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Ip 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. Ip are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. 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 with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

6111 River Rd, Unit 160, Lifemark Sport Medicine Richmond Oval
Richmond, BC, V7C 0A2

Phone: (604) 244-8825

Dr. Alvin Hoy Ip 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: 36925

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/341127/Ip%2CAlvin

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