Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Perera is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Perera is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in AB.

As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Perera 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. Perera serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Mcmaster University, graduating in 2011. Subsequently, Dr. Perera completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 14 years of practice since 2011, Dr. Perera's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Perera is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care. Key aspects of Dr. Perera's medical practice philosophy include: a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery; a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence. Dr. Perera provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Addressing chronic pain conditions caused by nerve injury or disease.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: A comprehensive approach to managing complex and diffuse pain that significantly impacts daily life.

Neurological Conditions

• 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).

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Developing rehabilitation plans to optimize outcomes following surgeries like total knee/hip replacement, rotator cuff repair, or spinal fusion.

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

• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for individuals recovering from stroke to improve mobility, speech, cognition, and activities of daily living.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Helping athletes recover from injuries and optimize performance through targeted therapies.
• Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., MS, Parkinson's): Optimizing function and quality of life for patients with progressive or chronic neurological conditions through tailored therapies and adaptive strategies.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Specialized nerve testing to identify conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy (pinched nerves), peripheral neuropathy, and muscle diseases.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Perera. 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. Gihan Christopher Perera adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera'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. Perera frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When not being able to lift their arm properly after a shoulder injury begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Perera helps patients strive for improved cognitive function, such as memory and concentration, after a brain injury. This makes participating in activities such as resuming a favorite craft or artistic pursuit a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Dr. Perera often consults with patients whose not being able to use their hand effectively after a nerve injury significantly limits their enjoyment of remembering appointments and managing daily schedules after a brain injury or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve improved ability to engage in leisure activities and hobbies they enjoy and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Are you struggling with the ongoing pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia impacting every part of their life? Dr. Perera partners with patients to target learning techniques to prevent re-injury or a worsening of their condition, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as getting in and out of a chair or bed with greater ease a much more achievable reality.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement, involves working systematically towards feeling more confident in their physical abilities. Dr. Perera expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including participating in rehabilitation therapies actively and effectively.

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

Dr. Perera's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Edmonton, is situated in the NW: Sherbrooke, Prince Charles, Inglewood neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near Shaw Conference Centre (Edmonton Convention Centre) and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

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

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

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Perera is a medical doctor 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. Perera at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Perera will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, how these impact your daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Perera 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. Perera will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

Dr. Perera treats 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.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Perera covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. Perera are covered by provincial health plans such as AHCIP, 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, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) 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.

11808 St Albert Trail NW, 338
Edmonton, AB, T5L 4G4

Phone: (780) 328-6476

Dr. Gihan Christopher Perera is a licensed Physiatrist in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 28849

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=c28a1db7-5ff0-4a49-b4c4-2b0641c3a319&i=1149

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