Dr. Guy Trudel

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

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.
• 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.

Neurological Conditions

• 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: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.
• 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. Trudel, 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.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Creating multidisciplinary treatment strategies involving therapies, assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications to optimize recovery and function.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Working collaboratively with physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized rehabilitation to help patients with spinal cord injuries achieve their maximum potential for independence.
• 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.

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

At Dr. Guy Trudel'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. Trudel frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Managing their neck pain giving them constant headaches effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Trudel and the dental team. The clear aim is always feeling more confident in their physical abilities, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying driving their car independently and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Through Dr. Trudel's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from needing help to manage muscle spasms or cramps effectively often find they can readily achieve their rehabilitation plan leading to tangible improvements in their daily function and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like managing their assistive devices efficiently.
• If a sports injury that's keeping them off the field has unfortunately put participating in rehabilitation therapies actively and effectively on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Trudel works closely with patients towards attaining greater endurance and less fatigue during physical activity, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.
• For patients where wanting to explore options for pain relief beyond just medication is a primary concern, Dr. Trudel focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in feeling heard and supported throughout their treatment journey. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully dressing, bathing, and grooming themselves without assistance.

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

Dr. Trudel's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Ottawa, is situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Rideau Canal National Historic Site and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Trudel 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 (e.g., sports injuries, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury), illness (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis, arthritis), or chronic pain. 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.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Trudel 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. Trudel are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the 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. Patients should inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check private insurance coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

How often will I need to see Dr. Trudel for follow-up appointments?

The frequency of follow-up appointments will depend on the condition, treatment plan, and patient progress. Initially, visits might be more frequent to monitor response to treatment or adjust medications/therapies. As the condition stabilizes or improves, follow-ups may become less frequent, focusing on long-term management and ensuring functional goals are maintained. Dr. Trudel will recommend a schedule tailored to each patient's needs.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly and well electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Trudel 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.

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

The first visit will typically involve a comprehensive assessment: a detailed discussion of medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Trudel will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological system depending on the presenting problem. Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Trudel will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with the patient to establish functional goals.

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

Dr. Trudel treats various conditions, including: 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. Trudel?

Bring your provincial health card (e.g., OHIP card), referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications, copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports (reports are often more useful than just the images initially), and any pertinent test results. If applicable, also bring comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s), and any braces, splints, or assistive devices you currently use.

Unit Suite 203, 505 Smyth Road, Suite 203
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M2

Phone: (613) 737-8899

Dr. Guy Trudel 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: 69346

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Trudel-Guy/0057758-69346

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