Dr. Jeffrey Edwin Blackmer – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Jeffrey Edwin Blackmer is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at Unison Health & Community Services in Ottawa, ON, Dr. Blackmer is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Blackmer 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. Blackmer 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. Blackmer serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Jeffrey Edwin Blackmer earned a Medical Degree in 1995. Subsequently, Dr. Blackmer completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Blackmer brings valuable clinical experience to his practice. Dr. Blackmer's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Blackmer is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care. Key aspects of Dr. Blackmer's medical practice philosophy include: 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; a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence. Dr. Blackmer is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

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

Neurological Conditions

• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation for individuals who have experienced an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Long-term care and rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, addressing paralysis, spasticity, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and other complications.
• 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.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

Post Surgical Rehab

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

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. Blackmer, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: Thorough evaluation of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional status, including detailed history, physical examination, and review of imaging/diagnostic tests.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Creating multidisciplinary treatment strategies involving therapies, assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications to optimize recovery and function.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Performing and interpreting Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to assess nerve and muscle function and diagnose neuromuscular disorders.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Developing individualized pain management plans to reduce suffering and improve daily functioning for patients with chronic pain.

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

At Unison Health & Community Services, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Blackmer frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Many people seek Dr. Blackmer's professional help and expertise when dealing with a 'pinched nerve' in their neck or back causing shooting pains. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently better management of their chronic condition, leading to an improved quality of life, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to sleeping through the night without being woken by pain.
• Dr. Blackmer expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of difficulty participating in family activities due to physical limitations. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by being able to manage their condition proactively to maintain their gains, means they can happily and comfortably get back to communicating their needs clearly if they have speech difficulties.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing experiencing pain or weakness that doctors haven't been able to diagnose easily, involves working systematically towards a significant reduction in their daily pain levels. Dr. Blackmer expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including their child being able to play and interact with peers more easily.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Blackmer with concerns about chronic pain that affects their mood and ability to enjoy life. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve achieving the best possible physical function given their underlying condition, making a positive and lasting return to enjoying hobbies like painting, knitting, or playing a musical instrument not just possible, but highly feasible.

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

Dr. Blackmer practices at Unison Health & Community Services, situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy (Corso Italia) and is accessible via OC Transpo (O-Train LRT, Bus). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

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

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

Dr. Blackmer 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. His focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Blackmer at Unison Health & Community Services?

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. Blackmer will perform a thorough physical examination, reviewing any prior imaging or test results. Based on this, he will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Blackmer 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. Blackmer are covered by OHIP, 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 programs) may have associated fees. Inquire with Unison Health & Community Services about potential out-of-pocket costs and check your private insurance for coverage of adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Blackmer is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, 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.

Unison Health & Community Services
505 Smyth Road
Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M2

Phone: (613) 737-7350

Dr. Jeffrey Edwin Blackmer 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: 73076

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Blackmer-Jeffrey-Edwin/0156505-73076

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