Dr. Kevin Hsu – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | North York, ON

Dr. Kevin Hsu is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in North York, ON, Dr. Hsu is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Hsu 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. Hsu 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. Hsu serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Kevin Hsu earned a Medical Degree in 2014. Subsequently, Dr. Hsu completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Hsu brings valuable clinical experience to their practice. Dr. Hsu's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Hsu is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Hsu's medical practice philosophy include: a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery; promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges. Dr. Hsu provides consultations in English.

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

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.
• 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.

Neurological Conditions

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Maximizing functional independence and quality of life for patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• 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.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• 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.

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: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.

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

• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Leading a rehabilitation team to ensure all aspects of a patient's recovery are addressed cohesively.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Managing the complex medical and functional consequences of spinal cord injury, aiming to optimize health, function, and community reintegration.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Hsu. 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. Kevin Hsu 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. Kevin Hsu'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. Hsu frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Hsu helps patients strive for regaining strength and function in an injured limb. This makes participating in activities such as sleeping through the night without being woken by pain a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Are you struggling with struggling with everyday tasks like dressing or cooking due to severe arthritis pain? Dr. Hsu partners with patients to target being able to perform daily self-care tasks independently again, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as being able to sit comfortably for a movie or a long car ride a much more achievable reality.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Hsu with concerns about the challenge of adapting to a new disability and wanting to regain independence. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve reduced muscle spasms and improved range of motion, making a positive and lasting return to managing their personal errands and appointments independently not just possible, but highly feasible.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition, involves working systematically towards a noticeable improvement in their posture and body mechanics. Dr. Hsu expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including participating in physical therapy sessions with greater ease and less pain.

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

Dr. Hsu's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in North York, is situated in a central location within the North York neighborhood of North York. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Hsu 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. Hsu 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 EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Hsu 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. Hsu 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. Hsu at the clinic?

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

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Hsu 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. 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. Hsu 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. Hsu are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in ON, provided you have a valid health card and appropriate referral if required. However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) may not be fully covered or 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.

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

Dr. Hsu 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. Dr. Hsu focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

Unit Suite 208, 3560 Bathurst St, Suite 208
North York, ON, M6A 2E1

Phone: (416) 785-2500

Dr. Kevin Hsu 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: 103295

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Hsu-Kevin/0295651-103295

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