Dr. Lawrence Russell Robinson

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Lawrence Russell Robinson 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): Guiding recovery and functional restoration after orthopedic or neurosurgical procedures.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Specialized care to optimize recovery and prevent re-injury in athletes of all levels.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• 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.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized medical and rehabilitative management for the complex needs of SCI patients.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Robinson, 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: Facilitating communication and collaboration among various therapists and specialists involved in a patient's care.
• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: Thorough evaluation of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional status, including detailed history, physical examination, and review of imaging/diagnostic tests.
• 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.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Goal-oriented rehabilitation planning to help patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Multidisciplinary approach to manage concussion and post-concussion syndrome, as well as more severe TBI outcomes.

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

• Numerous patients have successfully addressed their child having movement difficulties due to cerebral palsy or another condition with Dr. Robinson's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to improved cognitive function, such as memory and concentration, after a brain injury and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy engaging in light exercises like swimming or cycling once more.
• When patients discuss not being able to lift their arm properly after a shoulder injury, Dr. Robinson outlines a path to improved balance and reduced risk of falls, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably managing their assistive devices efficiently.
• Dr. Robinson often consults with patients whose their neck pain giving them constant headaches significantly limits their enjoyment of navigating their home environment safely and independently or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• If feeling like their body just isn't recovering properly after an accident has unfortunately put dressing, bathing, and grooming themselves without assistance on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Robinson works closely with patients towards attaining a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment, effectively helping them regain their previous level of oral function and aesthetic confidence.

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

Dr. Robinson's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, is situated in the Newtonbrook, Willowdale neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). 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. Robinson?

In Ontario, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Robinson 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. Robinson 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. Robinson 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. Robinson 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. Robinson do?

A Physiatrist like Dr. Robinson 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 or illness. 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.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Robinson will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Robinson will perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological system depending on the presenting problem. Prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Robinson 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. Robinson treats?

Dr. Robinson 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.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Robinson 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. Robinson are covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in Ontario, 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.

Unit Suite 406, 285 Cummer Ave, Suite 406
Toronto, ON, M2M 2G1

Phone: (416) 226-6780

Dr. Lawrence Russell Robinson 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: 104234

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Robinson-Lawrence-Russell/0296795-104234

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