Dr. Andrew David Lavigne

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Andrew David Lavigne addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Post Surgical Rehab

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

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Helping amputees achieve optimal function, comfort, and independence with their prosthetic devices.
• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Rehabilitation programs to address generalized weakness, fatigue, and loss of function following prolonged illness, hospitalization, or inactivity.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Management strategies for arthritis, including medication, injections, bracing, and exercise programs to improve joint function and reduce pain.
• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Comprehensive non-operative care for spinal pain, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and preventative strategies.

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Helping patients recover and adapt after a TBI to return to daily life, work, or school.
• 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.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Addressing disorders of the peripheral nervous system to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.
• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Post-stroke care focusing on maximizing recovery of motor function, speech, cognition, and independence in daily activities.

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

• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Developing individualized pain management plans to reduce suffering and improve daily functioning for patients with chronic pain.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Targeted injections to manage disabling muscle stiffness and spasms, enhancing comfort and functional abilities.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Working collaboratively with physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: Holistic evaluation focusing on restoring function and improving quality of life for patients with physical impairments.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.

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

At Halton McMaster Family Health, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Lavigne frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The primary focus for patients seeking help for numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away at Dr. Lavigne's practice is consistently achieving better understanding of how to adapt their environment to their needs. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as writing or typing without hand pain or fatigue.
• Patients experiencing recovering from a major surgery and needing help to get moving again often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Lavigne's practice, a key objective is their child achieving better motor skills and functional independence, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in walking around their neighborhood or a park comfortably.
• Managing trouble with their memory and concentration after a head injury effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Lavigne and the dental team. The clear aim is always achieving a better overall sense of well-being and physical comfort, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying managing their personal errands and appointments independently and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Effectively addressing needing to find better ways to cope with daily pain and its impact on their mental health with Dr. Lavigne's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of better sleep quality due to reduced pain or discomfort, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in performing household repairs or light maintenance tasks and social interactions.

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

Halton McMaster Family Health, where Dr. Lavigne practices, is situated in the Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Bayfield Mall and is easily accessible via Barrie Transit. Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Lavigne treat 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. Lavigne's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients.

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

In Ontario, a referral from your family doctor (GP) or another specialist is usually required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Lavigne for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans such as the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Lavigne has the necessary medical history. If you believe you need a physiatric assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Lavigne 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 improve functional ability, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life for individuals with physical impairments or disabilities from injury or illness. They use non-surgical treatments such as medication, therapeutic exercise, targeted injections (where applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Lavigne 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. Lavigne are covered by provincial health plans like OHIP in Ontario, provided you have a valid health card and the appropriate referral (if required). However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive programs) may have additional costs. Inquire with Halton McMaster Family Health about potential out-of-pocket expenses and check your private insurance coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Lavigne at Halton McMaster Family Health?

Your first visit with Dr. Lavigne will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and previous treatments. A thorough physical examination will follow, focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological systems depending on your needs. Dr. Lavigne will review any prior imaging or test results. Based on this, Dr. Lavigne will discuss their findings, may recommend further investigations, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to set functional goals.

Can Dr. Lavigne help with chronic back pain without surgery?

Yes, Physiatrists like Dr. Lavigne are experts in non-surgical management of acute and chronic back and neck pain. Following a thorough assessment, treatment may include personalized exercise programs, medication management, advice on posture and ergonomics, physical therapy referrals, and potentially therapeutic injections (if appropriate and part of Dr. Lavigne's practice) to improve function and reduce pain.

How often will I need to see Dr. Lavigne for follow-up appointments?

Follow-up appointment frequency depends on your condition, treatment plan, and progress. Initially, visits may be more frequent for monitoring and adjustments. As your condition improves, follow-ups will become less frequent, focusing on long-term management and maintaining functional goals. Dr. Lavigne will tailor a schedule to your individual needs.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates muscle electrical activity, while Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure the speed of electrical signals along nerves. Dr. Lavigne might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions like pinched nerves, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders. These tests help pinpoint nerve or muscle problems, guiding treatment.

Halton McMaster Family Health
11 Lakeside Terrace, Centre
Barrie, ON, L4M 0H9

Phone: (705) 726-7427

Dr. Andrew David Lavigne 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: 92818

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lavigne-Andrew-David/0265903-92818

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