Dr. Lawrence Ting Fong Kei

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Lawrence Ting Fong Kei addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of CRPS (formerly RSD), a chronic pain condition typically affecting an arm or leg after an injury or trauma.
• Chronic Widespread Pain: Addressing persistent pain that affects multiple body regions, often associated with conditions like fibromyalgia or central sensitization.

Post Surgical Rehab

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

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Addressing the underlying biomechanical factors contributing to overuse injuries and implementing strategies for recovery and prevention.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A multimodal approach to complex pain conditions involving muscles and connective tissues.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Helping patients manage the symptoms of various arthritic conditions affecting mobility and quality of life.

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

• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Performing image-guided (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) injections such as corticosteroid injections, viscosupplementation, trigger point injections, and peripheral nerve blocks.
• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: In-depth assessment to diagnose conditions causing pain, weakness, or functional limitations and to determine rehabilitation potential.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Working collaboratively with physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Kei. 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 Ting Fong Kei adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Lawrence Ting Fong Kei'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. Kei frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Kei expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by successfully navigating the challenges of a new diagnosis with expert guidance, means they can happily and comfortably get back to returning to their job or volunteer work.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for not being able to return to work because of their physical limitations at Dr. Kei's practice is consistently achieving their rehabilitation plan leading to tangible improvements in their daily function. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as being able to sit comfortably for a movie or a long car ride.
• Dr. Kei's comprehensive care for difficulty swallowing or speaking clearly after a neurological event is meticulously designed to result in better sleep quality due to reduced pain or discomfort. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as their child being able to play and interact with peers more easily without dental worries.
• For individuals troubled by a significant decrease in their endurance and ability to perform physical tasks, Dr. Kei's approach is focused on delivering a clear understanding of their condition and a personalized rehabilitation plan. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like reducing their dependence on mobility aids if possible and desired with a healthier smile.

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

Dr. Kei's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in New Westminster, is situated in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Historic Downtown New Westminster and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

What should I bring to my appointment with Dr. Kei?

Please bring your provincial health card (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC card), the referral letter (if applicable), a list of all current medications (including dosage and frequency for prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, CT scans – reports are often more useful than just the images themselves initially), and any pertinent test results. If applicable, comfortable clothing that allows for easy examination of the affected body part(s), and any braces, splints, or assistive devices you currently use.

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

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

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Kei covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. Kei are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided you have 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. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

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

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

How is a Physiatrist different from an Orthopedic Surgeon or a Neurologist?

While all three specialties may deal with the musculoskeletal and/or nervous systems, their approaches differ. Orthopedic Surgeons perform surgery on bones, joints, and related tissues. Neurologists diagnose and treat brain, spinal cord, and nerve diseases, often with medication. Physiatrists like Dr. Kei optimize function and quality of life through non-surgical means, comprehensive rehabilitation, and disability management. They take a holistic view, coordinating multidisciplinary care.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Kei 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.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates skeletal muscle electrical activity, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Kei might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves (radiculopathy), carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders. These tests help pinpoint the location and severity of nerve or muscle problems, guiding further treatment.

250 Keary St Unit 304
New Westminster, BC, V3L 5E7

Phone: (604) 544-5044

Dr. Lawrence Ting Fong Kei is a licensed Physiatrist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 59431

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/337102/Kei%2CLawrence

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