Dr. Cameron John Bruce Cunningham

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Cameron John Bruce Cunningham 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): Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of CRPS (formerly RSD), a chronic pain condition typically affecting an arm or leg after an injury or trauma.
• 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.

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Comprehensive care for individuals with limb loss, including pre-prosthetic management, prosthetic prescription, gait training, and adjustment to life with a prosthesis.
• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.

Neurological Conditions

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Maximizing functional independence and quality of life for patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• 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.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Cunningham, 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.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Minimally invasive procedures to deliver medication directly to the source of pain or inflammation for therapeutic benefit.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Facilitating communication and collaboration among various therapists and specialists involved in a patient's care.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Cunningham. 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. Cameron John Bruce Cunningham 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. Cameron John Bruce Cunningham'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. Cunningham frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing difficulty swallowing or speaking clearly after a neurological event effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Cunningham and the dental team. The clear aim is always feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying participating in physical therapy sessions with greater ease and less pain and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• For patients where their child having movement difficulties due to cerebral palsy or another condition is a primary concern, Dr. Cunningham focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a safe and effective exercise program tailored to their abilities. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully navigating their home environment safely and independently.
• Overcoming or effectively managing their neck pain giving them constant headaches is a common journey for patients under Dr. Cunningham's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling better sleep quality due to reduced pain or discomfort, so that daily routines and pleasures like getting in and out of a chair or bed with greater ease become straightforward again.
• Understanding the frustration their persistent low back pain making it hard to sit or stand for long can cause, Dr. Cunningham tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment, allowing for renewed participation in activities like enjoying a walk on uneven ground or nature trails.

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

Dr. Cunningham's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in New Westminster, is situated in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Royal City Centre Mall and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Cunningham 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 (where applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans, often involving a team of therapists.

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

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

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Cunningham at the clinic?

Your first visit will involve a comprehensive assessment including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Cunningham will perform a thorough physical examination, reviewing any prior imaging or test results. Based on this, Dr. Cunningham will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Cunningham 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. Cunningham might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves, 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. Cunningham work with other healthcare professionals as part of a rehabilitation team?

Physiatrists like Dr. Cunningham often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, which may include physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, social workers, kinesiologists, orthotists/prosthetists, and other medical specialists. Dr. Cunningham coordinates with these professionals to ensure a holistic approach to the patient's recovery and functional improvement. You can ask Dr. Cunningham about team members involved in your care.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Cunningham 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. Cunningham 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 (if required). However, some specific treatments or procedures may not be fully covered, or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Dr. Cunningham treats a range of 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.

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

Bring your provincial health card (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC card), referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications, copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports, and any pertinent test results. If applicable, wear comfortable clothing allowing easy examination of the affected body part(s), and bring any braces, splints, or assistive devices you use.

304-250 Keary St, New West Rehab Medicine
New Westminster, BC, V3L 5E7

Phone: (604) 544-5044

Dr. Cameron John Bruce Cunningham 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: 62348

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333496/Cunningham%2CCameron

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