Dr. Nigel Leslie Ashworth – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Nigel Leslie Ashworth is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Edmonton, AB, Dr. Ashworth is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Ashworth is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in AB. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Ashworth 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. Ashworth serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Nigel Leslie Ashworth earned a Medical Degree from England, graduating in 1989. Subsequently, Dr. Ashworth completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 36 years of practice since 1989, Dr. Ashworth's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Ashworth is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ashworth's medical practice philosophy include: 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. Ashworth provides consultations in English.

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

Neurological Conditions

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Helping stroke survivors regain lost abilities and adapt to life after a stroke through specialized therapies.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

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.
• 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.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Treating localized muscle pain and trigger points characteristic of myofascial pain syndrome.

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. Ashworth, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): Developing individualized pain management plans to reduce suffering and improve daily functioning for patients with chronic pain.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Non-invasive imaging to visualize musculoskeletal structures and guide therapeutic interventions.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Non-operative care for joint disorders, including therapeutic injections, bracing, and exercise prescription.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Optimizing pharmacological treatments to provide effective pain relief while minimizing side effects and risks.
• 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. Ashworth. 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. Nigel Leslie Ashworth adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Nigel Leslie Ashworth'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. Ashworth frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• When feeling generally weak and deconditioned after a long illness starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to their child being able to participate more fully in school activities, Dr. Ashworth and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by being able to participate more fully in family and social life and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Effectively addressing their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement with Dr. Ashworth's comprehensive dental approach often leads to the desired outcome of improved bladder and bowel control, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in feeling physically capable of handling unexpected daily challenges and social interactions.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing severe pain and strange sensations in their limb after an old injury (CRPS-like symptoms), involves working systematically towards a significant reduction in their daily pain levels. Dr. Ashworth expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including cooking their own meals and managing household chores.
• Dr. Ashworth expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of their multiple sclerosis symptoms making it difficult to stay active. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by their chronic pain no longer dominating their life, means they can happily and comfortably get back to being able to stand for periods needed for work or daily tasks.

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

Dr. Ashworth's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Edmonton, is situated in the N Central: Queen Mary Park, Central McDougall, Blatchford Area neighborhood of Edmonton. The clinic is conveniently located near University Hospital and is accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). Accessible patient parking is typically available near our facility.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Ashworth will typically involve a comprehensive assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the nature and timeline of your current symptoms, how these symptoms impact your daily activities and quality of life, and any previous treatments. Dr. Ashworth will then perform a thorough physical examination, which may focus on the musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles, spine) and/or neurological system depending on the presenting problem. Any prior imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT) or test results will be reviewed. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Ashworth will discuss his diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations if needed, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Ashworth treat a wide range of conditions. Examples include 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. Ashworth's focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Ashworth 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 (where appropriate), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Ashworth covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. Ashworth are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, provided you have a valid health card and an 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. 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 EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Ashworth 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. Ashworth 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.

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

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

10230 111 Ave NW
Edmonton, AB, T5G 0B7

Phone: (780) 735-7999

Dr. Nigel Leslie Ashworth is a licensed Physiatrist in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 12871

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=b222f308-0c8a-4c6e-9fad-cc989ce831bf&i=107

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