Dr. Michel Lacerte

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Michel Lacerte 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.

Neurological Conditions

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Specialized medical and rehabilitative management for the complex needs of SCI patients.
• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Post-stroke care focusing on maximizing recovery of motor function, speech, cognition, and independence in daily activities.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Diagnosing and treating inflammation of tendons (tendonitis/tendinopathy) and bursae (bursitis) in areas like the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, or ankle.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Treating localized muscle pain and trigger points characteristic of myofascial pain syndrome.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Helping patients manage the symptoms of various arthritic conditions affecting mobility and quality of life.

Post Surgical Rehab

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

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

• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Managing the complex medical and functional consequences of spinal cord injury, aiming to optimize health, function, and community reintegration.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Minimally invasive procedures to deliver medication directly to the source of pain or inflammation for therapeutic benefit.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Targeted injections to manage disabling muscle stiffness and spasms, enhancing comfort and functional abilities.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Utilizing diagnostic ultrasound imaging for real-time assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lacerte. 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. Michel Lacerte 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 Lawrence Valley Correctional and, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Lacerte frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Understanding the frustration their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement can cause, Dr. Lacerte tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their sports injury healing properly, allowing a safe return to play, allowing for renewed participation in activities like being able to sit comfortably for a movie or a long car ride.
• For patients where the ongoing pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia impacting every part of their life is a primary concern, Dr. Lacerte focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in successful return to work or meaningful activities. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully their child being able to keep up with friends during playtime.
• If needing to find better ways to cope with daily pain and its impact on their mental health is preventing you from fully enjoying remembering appointments and managing daily schedules after a brain injury or causing discomfort, Dr. Lacerte offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• Many people seek Dr. Lacerte's professional help and expertise when dealing with numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently reduced muscle spasms and improved range of motion, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to performing tasks that require fine motor coordination.

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

Dr. Lacerte's practice, St Lawrence Valley Correctional and, is situated in the Talbot Village West, Riverbend neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near Fanshawe College (Main Campus) and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Lacerte 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. Lacerte 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.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Lacerte 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. Lacerte are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, provided the patient has 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. It's always best for patients to inquire with St Lawrence Valley Correctional and 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.

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

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

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Lacerte treat diverse 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. Lacerte focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Lacerte at St Lawrence Valley Correctional and?

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

Can Dr. Lacerte help with chronic back pain without surgery?

Yes, Physiatrists like Dr. Lacerte specialize in non-surgical management of acute and chronic back and neck pain. Treatment may include personalized exercise programs, medication management, advice on posture and ergonomics, referrals for physical therapy, and potentially therapeutic injections (if appropriate and part of Dr. Lacerte's practice) to improve function and reduce pain.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at St Lawrence Valley Correctional and?

We understand unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Lacerte. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Lacerte 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.

St Lawrence Valley Correctional and
4520 Colonel Talbot Road, Treatment Centre
London, ON, N6P 1B6

Phone: (519) 652-2141

Dr. Michel Lacerte 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: 61912

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lacerte-Michel/0047934-61912

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