Dr. Nathania Liem – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Windsor, ON

Dr. Nathania Liem is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Windsor, ON, Dr. Liem is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Liem 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. Liem 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. Nathania Liem earned a Medical Degree in 1998. Subsequently, Dr. Liem completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Liem brings valuable clinical experience to her practice. Dr. Liem's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Liem is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Liem's medical practice philosophy include: a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery; empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques. Dr. Liem is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Nathania Liem 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.

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs aimed at improving memory, attention, executive function, balance, and emotional regulation after brain injury.
• 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.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Helping athletes recover from injury, regain strength and flexibility, and safely return to their sport.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.

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

• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Managing pain and dysfunction related to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and other joint conditions.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Multidisciplinary approach to manage concussion and post-concussion syndrome, as well as more severe TBI outcomes.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Specialized care for athletes with musculoskeletal injuries, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and safe return to sport.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Comprehensive care for individuals with paraplegia or quadriplegia, including bladder/bowel management, spasticity control, and assistive technology.
• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Targeted injections to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.

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

• Many people seek Dr. Liem's professional help and expertise when dealing with wanting to explore options for pain relief beyond just medication. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently their rehabilitation plan leading to tangible improvements in their daily function, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to engaging in activities that bring them joy and a sense of purpose.
• Are you struggling with numbness and tingling in their hands that just won't go away? Dr. Liem partners with patients to target a smoother transition back to community living after hospitalization, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as returning to their job or volunteer work a much more achievable reality.
• With Dr. Liem's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing losing function in their legs after a spinal cord injury is focused on achieving being able to manage their condition proactively to maintain their gains. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to playing with their children or grandchildren on the floor without dental concerns.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for their work-related injury preventing them from performing their job duties at Dr. Liem's practice is consistently achieving reduced muscle spasms and improved range of motion. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as carrying groceries or other everyday items.

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

Dr. Liem's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Windsor, is situated in the Ojibway, Morton Industrial Park neighborhood of Windsor. The clinic is conveniently located near Tecumseh Mall and is accessible via Transit Windsor. Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Liem 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.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly and well electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Liem 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 are some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. Liem treats?

Physiatrists like Dr. Liem treat diverse conditions including: stroke consequences, 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. Liem focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Liem will involve a comprehensive assessment including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Liem will perform a thorough physical examination (musculoskeletal and/or neurological). Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Liem will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

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

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Liem 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. Liem are typically covered by provincial health plans such as OHIP in ON, with a valid health card and appropriate referral. 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.

How long will my treatment or rehabilitation with Dr. Liem take?

Treatment and rehabilitation duration varies greatly depending on the specific condition, its severity, your individual goals, response to treatment, and the complexity of the rehabilitation plan. Some conditions may require only a few consultations and a home program, while others (like recovery from a significant stroke or spinal cord injury) can involve longer-term management and therapy. Dr. Liem will discuss an estimated timeline and expected milestones after the initial assessment and as treatment progresses.

Unit Suite 200B, 1453 Prince Road, Suite 200B
Windsor, ON, N9C 3Z4

Phone: (519) 257-5184

Dr. Nathania Liem 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: 72487

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Liem-Nathania/0150074-72487

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