Dr. Andrea Finstad Townson – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Vancouver, BC

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

Dr. Andrea Finstad Townson earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Queen'S University, graduating in 1991. Subsequently, Dr. Townson completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 34 years of practice since 1991, Dr. Townson'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. Townson is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Townson's medical practice philosophy include: collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care; promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Townson provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Andrea Finstad Townson addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: A comprehensive approach to managing complex and diffuse pain that significantly impacts daily life.
• 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.

Neurological Conditions

• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Helping stroke survivors regain lost abilities and adapt to life after a stroke through specialized therapies.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Helping patients recover and adapt after a TBI to return to daily life, work, or school.

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Helping patients regain mobility, strength, and independence after major surgical interventions.

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

• 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.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Managing the complex medical and functional consequences of spinal cord injury, aiming to optimize health, function, and community reintegration.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Minimally invasive procedures to deliver medication directly to the source of pain or inflammation for therapeutic benefit.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Diagnostic procedures to evaluate the health of muscles and the nerves that control them.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Townson. 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. Andrea Finstad Townson 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. Andrea Finstad Townson'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. Townson frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Townson provides dedicated support for patients going through the frustration of not being able to do the hobbies they once loved due to pain or disability, always aiming for positive outcomes like greater endurance and less fatigue during physical activity, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as driving their car independently.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Townson when they first notice a significant decrease in their endurance and ability to perform physical tasks. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve a clear understanding of their condition and a personalized rehabilitation plan, enabling them to once again enjoy playing with their children or grandchildren on the floor without hesitation.
• A key objective when treating their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate at Dr. Townson's welcoming dental clinic is achieving their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like attending social gatherings and community events with confidence.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Townson with concerns about not being able to return to work because of their physical limitations. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve regaining strength and function in an injured limb, making a positive and lasting return to participating in physical therapy sessions with greater ease and less pain not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Townson's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Fairview neighborhood. The clinic enjoys convenient proximity to Canada Line Stations and 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 can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Townson at the clinic?

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

What should I bring to my appointment with Dr. Townson?

Please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC card), the referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications (including dosage and frequency for prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements), 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. If applicable, also bring comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s), and any braces, splints, or assistive devices you currently use.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Townson treat a wide range of conditions. Some common examples include 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. Townson focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Townson 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. Townson are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, 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 the clinic 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.

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

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

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Townson is a medical doctor (physician) 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 programs, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Townson might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to help diagnose conditions such as 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 further treatment.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Townson often work as part of a multidisciplinary team providing 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. Townson coordinates with these professionals to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to the patient's recovery and functional improvement. You can ask Dr. Townson about the team members who might be involved in your care.

4255 Laurel St, G.F. Strong Rehab Centre
Vancouver, BC, V5Z 2G9

Phone: (604) 714-4112

Dr. Andrea Finstad Townson 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: 23020

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/307749/Townson%2CAndrea

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