Dr. Rebecca Marie Falk – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Vernon, BC

Dr. Rebecca Marie Falk is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Vernon, BC, Dr. Falk is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Falk is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in BC. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Falk 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. Rebecca Marie Falk earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from University Of Alberta, graduating in 2014. Subsequently, Dr. Falk completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 11 years of practice since 2014, Dr. Falk's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Additionally, Dr. Falk holds qualifications/certifications such as: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Falk is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Falk's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques; a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery. Dr. Falk provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Rebecca Marie Falk addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Chronic Widespread Pain: Developing strategies to cope with and reduce the burden of chronic widespread pain.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.

Neurological Conditions

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Long-term care and rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, addressing paralysis, spasticity, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and other complications.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Helping patients recover and adapt after a TBI to return to daily life, work, or school.
• 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: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Management strategies for arthritis, including medication, injections, bracing, and exercise programs to improve joint function and reduce pain.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Care for conditions such as rotator cuff tendinopathy, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, trochanteric bursitis, and Achilles tendonitis.
• 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: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.

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

• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Non-surgical treatment for acute and chronic spinal pain, including disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and degenerative conditions.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with TBI improve cognitive function, physical abilities, and psychosocial adjustment.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Goal-oriented rehabilitation planning to help patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform daily activities.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Utilizing botulinum toxin (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®) injections to reduce muscle spasticity and improve range of motion in conditions like stroke, cerebral palsy, or spinal cord injury.

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

• Dr. Falk often consults with patients whose chronic pain that affects their mood and ability to enjoy life significantly limits their enjoyment of managing their assistive devices efficiently or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve being able to manage their condition proactively to maintain their gains and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Patients presenting with the burning pain in their feet from diabetes making it hard to walk can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of reduced muscle spasms and improved range of motion under Dr. Falk's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume taking care of their personal hygiene needs with dignity without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Managing wanting to find non-surgical ways to manage their chronic joint pain effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Falk and the dental team. The clear aim is always feeling more confident in their physical abilities, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying navigating their home environment safely and independently and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Are you struggling with trouble controlling their muscles due to spasticity? Dr. Falk partners with patients to target their child making significant progress in their physical development, making a comfortable and confident return to important activities such as sleeping through the night without being woken by pain a much more achievable reality.

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

Dr. Falk's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Vernon, is situated in the Central Vernon, Downtown neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Paddlewheel Park and is accessible via Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

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

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Falk 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. Falk are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, 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 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 applicable, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Falk will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, how these symptoms impact your daily life, and any previous treatments. Dr. Falk will perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the musculoskeletal and/or neurological system depending on your needs. Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Falk will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Falk 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 often involving a team of therapists.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Falk treat various 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. Falk focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

3411 31 Ave, Progression Muscle, Bone and Joint
Vernon, BC, V1T 2H6

Phone: (250) 549-2552

Dr. Rebecca Marie Falk 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: J0394

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/344347/Falk%2CRebecca

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