Dr. Andrew David Willmott – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Andrew David Willmott is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo in Victoria, BC, Dr. Willmott is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Willmott 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. Willmott 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. Willmott serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Andrew David Willmott earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Mcmaster University, graduating in 2007. Subsequently, Dr. Willmott completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 18 years of practice since 2007, Dr. Willmott'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. Willmott is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Willmott's medical practice philosophy include: empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Willmott provides consultations in English.

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

Neurological Conditions

• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation for individuals who have experienced an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Maximizing functional independence and quality of life for patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Specialized care to optimize recovery and prevent re-injury in athletes of all levels.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Helping patients manage the symptoms of various arthritic conditions affecting mobility and quality of life.
• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Addressing various causes of back and neck discomfort through physiatric assessment and treatment.

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

• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Expert prescription and monitoring of analgesic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and medications for neuropathic pain or spasticity.
• 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.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Comprehensive assessment and treatment of persistent pain conditions using a combination of therapies, including medication management, interventional procedures, physical therapy, and psychological support.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Willmott. 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 Willmott 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 Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Willmott frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Are you struggling with their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement? Dr. Willmott partners with patients to target their pain being accurately diagnosed and effectively treated, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as attending social gatherings and community events with confidence a much more achievable reality.
• When wanting to explore options for pain relief beyond just medication begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Willmott helps patients strive for a smoother transition back to community living after hospitalization. This makes participating in activities such as reducing their dependence on mobility aids if possible and desired a pleasant and possible experience again.
• If feeling generally weak and deconditioned after a long illness is preventing you from fully enjoying dressing, bathing, and grooming themselves without assistance or causing discomfort, Dr. Willmott offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• If feeling very stiff and having trouble moving because of their Parkinson's is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Willmott develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at improved mobility and ability to walk further or more easily. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy performing household repairs or light maintenance tasks.

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

Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo is situated in a well-regarded medical clinic specializing in rehabilitation in the Victoria neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Craigdarroch Castle (nearby) and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Willmott 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. Willmott are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has 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 for patients to inquire with Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo about any potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and to check with their 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. Willmott?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Willmott 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. Willmott has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a physiatric assessment.

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

Yes, Physiatrists like Dr. Willmott are experts in the non-surgical management of acute and chronic back and neck pain. After a thorough assessment to determine the cause, treatment may include personalized exercise programs, medication management (e.g., anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications), advice on posture and ergonomics, referrals for physical therapy, and potentially therapeutic injections (such as epidural steroid injections or trigger point injections, if these are part of Dr. Willmott's practice and appropriate for the patient's condition) to improve function and reduce pain.

How is a Physiatrist different from an Orthopedic Surgeon or a Neurologist?

While all three specialties may deal with the musculoskeletal and/or nervous systems, their primary approaches differ. Orthopedic Surgeons are surgical specialists focused on operative treatment of bone, joint, and related soft tissue conditions. Neurologists are medical specialists who diagnose and treat diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, often primarily with medication or diagnostic procedures. Physiatrists like Dr. Willmott focus on optimizing function and quality of life through primarily non-surgical means, comprehensive rehabilitation planning, and managing disabilities across a spectrum of conditions. They often take a holistic view of how a condition impacts a patient's daily life and activities, coordinating multidisciplinary care.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Willmott at Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo?

The first visit with Dr. Willmott will typically involve a comprehensive assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the nature and timeline of their current symptoms, how these symptoms impact their daily activities and quality of life, and any previous treatments. Dr. Willmott 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. Willmott will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with the patient to establish functional goals.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Willmott 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.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Willmott 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. Willmott 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. Willmott treats?

Examples include: 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. Willmott focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

Andrew Willmott Clinic Nanaimo
284 Helmcken Rd Ste 211
Victoria, BC, V9B 1T2

Phone: (250) 595-5905

Dr. Andrew David Willmott 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: 65705

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/339395/Willmott%2CAndrew

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