Dr. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, ON, Dr. Tam is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Tam is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in ON. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Tam 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. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam earned a Medical Degree in 2006. Subsequently, Dr. Tam completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Tam brings valuable clinical experience to her practice. Dr. Tam's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Tam is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Tam's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques; promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges. Dr. Tam provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Addressing soft tissue inflammation around joints to relieve pain and restore normal movement.
• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Managing acute or chronic pain in the lumbar, thoracic, or cervical spine due to disc issues, arthritis, muscle strain, or stenosis without surgery.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A multimodal approach to complex pain conditions involving muscles and connective tissues.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Management strategies for arthritis, including medication, injections, bracing, and exercise programs to improve joint function and reduce pain.

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.

Sports Injuries Rehab

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

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

• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Targeted injections to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Diagnostic procedures to evaluate the health of muscles and the nerves that control them.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Targeted injections to manage disabling muscle stiffness and spasms, enhancing comfort and functional abilities.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Utilizing diagnostic ultrasound imaging for real-time assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Tam. 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. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At The Hospital for Sick Children, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Tam frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition often express a desire to improve their oral health and function. At Dr. Tam's practice, a key objective is their pain being accurately diagnosed and effectively treated, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in reducing their dependence on mobility aids if possible and desired.
• When needing help to manage muscle spasms or cramps effectively begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Tam helps patients strive for gaining the skills and support needed to live a more active and fulfilling life. This makes participating in activities such as returning to their job or volunteer work a pleasant and possible experience again.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of the frustration of not being able to do the hobbies they once loved due to pain or disability, Dr. Tam offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach reduced frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck issues. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of enjoying a walk on uneven ground or nature trails.
• Are you struggling with chronic pain that affects their mood and ability to enjoy life? Dr. Tam partners with patients to target improved ability to engage in leisure activities and hobbies they enjoy, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as sleeping through the night without being woken by pain a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Tam's practice is located at The Hospital for Sick Children in the Davisville North neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Port Lands and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Tam 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. Tam are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, 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 The Hospital for Sick Children 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.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Tam at The Hospital for Sick Children?

The first visit with Dr. Tam 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. Tam 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. Tam will discuss her 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 are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Tam 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. Tam 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.

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

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Tam for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Tam has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a physiatric assessment.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Tam treat diverse 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. Dr. Tam focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Tam 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. 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.

The Hospital for Sick Children
2300 Yonge St, Division of Adolescent Medicine Department of Paediatrics
Toronto, ON, M4P 1E4

Phone: (416) 486-4776

Dr. Emily Josephine Sze-Man Tam 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: 84532

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Tam-Emily-Josephine-SzeMan/0233191-84532

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