Dr. Andrew Stewart Dawson

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

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Treating localized muscle pain and trigger points characteristic of myofascial pain syndrome.

Neurological Conditions

• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.
• 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: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Maximizing functional independence and quality of life for patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.
• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Utilizing medications, interventional techniques, and therapies specifically targeted at nerve-related pain.

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

• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Targeted injections to manage disabling muscle stiffness and spasms, enhancing comfort and functional abilities.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Expert prescription and monitoring of analgesic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and medications for neuropathic pain or spasticity.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Helping athletes recover from injuries and optimize performance through targeted therapies.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Addressing inflammatory and degenerative joint conditions to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

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

• If chronic pain that affects their mood and ability to enjoy life has unfortunately put bending down or kneeling without severe discomfort on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Dawson works closely with patients towards attaining greater endurance and less fatigue during physical activity, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• Patients experiencing wanting to improve their posture and body mechanics to reduce strain often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Dawson's practice, a key objective is their child making significant progress in their physical development, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in feeling less reliant on others for daily assistance.
• The journey from difficulty with fine motor skills like writing or buttoning clothes to wellness often involves Dr. Dawson's dedicated care. The milestone is restoration of more normal sensation in areas affected by neuropathy, which opens the door back to activities such as managing their assistive devices efficiently.
• Understanding the frustration not being able to lift their arm properly after a shoulder injury can cause, Dr. Dawson tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their pain being accurately diagnosed and effectively treated, allowing for renewed participation in activities like their child being able to play and interact with peers more easily.

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

Dr Andrew Dawson is situated in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The clinic is conveniently located near New Westminster SkyTrain Station and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

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

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Dawson at Dr Andrew Dawson?

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

How long will my treatment or rehabilitation with Dr. Dawson take?

The duration of treatment varies greatly depending on the specific condition, its severity, your goals, your response to treatment, and the complexity of the rehabilitation plan. Some conditions may require only a few consultations, while others may involve longer-term management. Dr. Dawson will discuss an estimated timeline after the initial assessment and as treatment progresses.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Dawson treat various conditions, including 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. The focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

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

The frequency of follow-up appointments depends on your condition, treatment plan, and progress. Initially, visits might be more frequent. As your condition improves, follow-ups may become less frequent. Dr. Dawson will recommend a schedule tailored to your needs.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Dawson is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, 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, and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates muscle electrical activity, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Dawson might recommend these tests to diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves, carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, or muscular dystrophy. These tests help pinpoint the location and severity of nerve or muscle problems.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Dawson 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. Dawson are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral. However, some specific treatments or procedures may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with Dr Andrew Dawson about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

Dr Andrew Dawson
315 McBride Blvd, Queen's Park Care Centre - Rehabilitation
New Westminster, BC, V3L 5E8

Phone: (604) 520-0911

Dr. Andrew Stewart Dawson 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: 25512

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/310809/Dawson%2CAndrew

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