Dr. Joshua Peter Muhlstock

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

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Helping patients regain mobility, strength, and independence after major surgical interventions.

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): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• 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: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.

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

• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): A holistic approach to chronic pain that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the pain experience.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Utilizing diagnostic ultrasound imaging for real-time assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for individuals recovering from stroke to improve mobility, speech, cognition, and activities of daily living.
• Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., MS, Parkinson's): Managing symptoms and functional limitations associated with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, ALS, and muscular dystrophies.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Leading a rehabilitation team to ensure all aspects of a patient's recovery are addressed cohesively.

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

At St Michael's Hospital, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Muhlstock frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Muhlstock often consults with patients whose wanting to explore options for pain relief beyond just medication significantly limits their enjoyment of performing tasks that require fine motor coordination or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve better management of their chronic condition, leading to an improved quality of life and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• With Dr. Muhlstock's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing chronic pain that affects their mood and ability to enjoy life is focused on achieving a clear understanding of their condition and a personalized rehabilitation plan. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to feeling physically capable of handling unexpected daily challenges without dental concerns.
• For those affected by needing support to navigate the complexities of their rehabilitation journey, Dr. Muhlstock provides solutions that lead to improved cognitive function, such as memory and concentration, after a brain injury. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to gardening or doing yard work again.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Muhlstock about their multiple sclerosis symptoms making it difficult to stay active is to attain optimized recovery after surgery or a major medical event. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like managing their energy levels better throughout the day.

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

Dr. Muhlstock's practice, St Michael's Hospital, is situated in the Headon Forest, Palmer neighborhood of Burlington. The clinic is conveniently located near Joseph Brant Museum and is accessible via Burlington Transit. Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

Dr. Muhlstock treats a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Examples include 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. Muhlstock's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Muhlstock 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. Muhlstock 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 an 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 St Michael's Hospital 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 are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Muhlstock 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. Muhlstock 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 does a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist like Dr. Muhlstock do?

A Physiatrist like Dr. Muhlstock 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.

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

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

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Muhlstock at St Michael's Hospital?

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. Muhlstock will perform a thorough physical examination focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological system, depending on your presenting problem. Prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Muhlstock will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

St Michael's Hospital
Unit Suite 801, 3027 Harvester Road, Dept of Ophthalmology & Vision Sci
Burlington, ON, L7N 3G7

Phone: (905) 333-5100

Dr. Joshua Peter Muhlstock 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: 77859

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Muhlstock-Joshua-Peter/0181572-77859

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