Dr. Gabriel Hubert Hirsch

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Gabriel Hubert Hirsch addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Guiding recovery and functional restoration after orthopedic or neurosurgical procedures.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: Developing strategies to cope with and reduce the burden of chronic widespread pain.

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Symptom Management & Functional Rehab: Rehabilitative support for patients with MS to optimize mobility, energy conservation, and overall well-being.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized medical and rehabilitative management for the complex needs of SCI patients.

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

• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Comprehensive care for spinal disorders, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and prevention of recurrence.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Helping athletes recover from injuries and optimize performance through targeted therapies.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Developing individualized pain management plans to reduce suffering and improve daily functioning for patients with chronic pain.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Non-operative care for joint disorders, including therapeutic injections, bracing, and exercise prescription.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Diagnostic procedures to evaluate the health of muscles and the nerves that control them.

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

• Are you struggling with not being able to return to work because of their physical limitations? Dr. Hirsch partners with patients to target feeling more confident in their physical abilities, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as focusing on their studies or work without constant pain distraction a much more achievable reality.
• If severe pain and strange sensations in their limb after an old injury (CRPS-like symptoms) has unfortunately put sleeping through the night without being woken by pain on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Hirsch works closely with patients towards attaining a smoother transition back to community living after hospitalization, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Hirsch about needing to learn how to use a prosthetic limb effectively is to attain better management of their chronic condition, leading to an improved quality of life. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like enjoying hobbies like painting, knitting, or playing a musical instrument.
• Managing their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Hirsch and the dental team. The clear aim is always regaining strength and function in an injured limb, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying bending down or kneeling without severe discomfort and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

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

Gabriel Hirsch Clinic Vancouver is situated in the Marpole neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Brittania Community Centre and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Hirsch 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.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Hirsch at Gabriel Hirsch Clinic Vancouver?

Your first visit with Dr. Hirsch will involve a comprehensive assessment including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Hirsch will perform a thorough physical examination, review any prior imaging or test results, and discuss diagnostic impressions. Potential treatment and rehabilitation options will be outlined, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates electrical activity in skeletal muscles, while Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Hirsch might recommend these tests to diagnose conditions like 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 treatment.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Hirsch 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. Hirsch are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and an appropriate referral (if required). However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with Gabriel Hirsch Clinic Vancouver 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. Hirsch treats?

Dr. Hirsch treats various conditions, including consequences of stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (including concussion), sports injuries, arthritis, 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 is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at Gabriel Hirsch Clinic Vancouver?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Hirsch. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently.

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

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

Gabriel Hirsch Clinic Vancouver
Kerrisdale P.O. Box 18105, Gabriel Hirsch
Vancouver, BC, V6M 4L3

Phone: (604) 317-2637

Dr. Gabriel Hubert Hirsch 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: 7473

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/303608/Hirsch%2CGabriel

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