Dr. Arjun Balachandar – Neurologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Arjun Balachandar is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive neurological care for a wide range of conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality, ethical, and patient-centered care.

Dr. Balachandar graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada). He has been practicing as a Neurologist since 2024, with a focus on adult neurological conditions. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his expertise and adherence to rigorous certification standards.

His clinical philosophy is rooted in providing patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Balachandar is committed to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and support. He provides care in English and is dedicated to serving the Toronto community with compassion and professionalism, helping patients and their families navigate complex neurological issues with clarity and reassurance.

Dr. Arjun Balachandar addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

• Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke (Intracerebral & Subarachnoid): Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into or around brain tissue.
• Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-induced, Idiopathic): Damage to or disease affecting nerves, which may impair sensation, movement, gland or organ function, or other aspects of health.
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Arjun Balachandar.

• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Balachandar for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Mount Sinai Hospital is situated in Toronto's vibrant Garden District, Ryerson neighborhood, serving as a key medical facility with a dedicated neurology unit. Located near the historic St. Lawrence Hall and the bustling Financial District, the hospital is easily accessible via public transit, including the TTC subway, streetcar, and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexible options for patients visiting the hospital. As part of Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Balachandar’s practice benefits from a state-of-the-art environment focused on specialized neurological care, offering a welcoming setting for patients and their families.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Balachandar, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Balachandar, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Balachandar's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Balachandar, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Balachandar for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

How does Dr. Balachandar manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Balachandar will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

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

Your first appointment with Dr. Balachandar will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Balachandar may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.

Mount Sinai Hospital
30 Bond St, Department Of Psychiatry
Toronto, ON M5B 1W8

Phone: (416) 360-4000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Balachandar is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Balachandar for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Balachandar-Arjun/0328707-118817