Dr. Richard Kar-Tung Ho – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Richard Kar-Tung Ho is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Ho is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Ho 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. Ho 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. Ho serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Richard Kar-Tung Ho earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 2015. Subsequently, Dr. Ho completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 10 years of practice since 2015, Dr. Ho's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Additionally, the Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist holds qualifications/certifications such as: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Dr. Ho is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ho's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, focusing on individual goals and maximizing functional independence; a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery; collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. Ho is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Richard Kar-Tung Ho addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Neurological Conditions

• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Treatment strategies to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve health where possible.
• 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.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs aimed at improving memory, attention, executive function, balance, and emotional regulation after brain injury.

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: 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.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• 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): Addressing various causes of back and neck discomfort through physiatric assessment and treatment.
• 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. Ho, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Helping athletes recover from injuries and optimize performance through targeted therapies.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): A holistic approach to chronic pain that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the pain experience.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs for patients recovering from mild, moderate, or severe traumatic brain injuries, addressing cognitive, physical, and behavioral sequelae.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Managing pain and dysfunction related to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and other joint conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ho. 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. Richard Kar-Tung Ho 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. Richard Kar-Tung Ho'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. Ho frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition to wellness often involves Dr. Ho's dedicated care. The milestone is reduced frequency and intensity of headaches related to neck issues, which opens the door back to activities such as going up and down stairs without significant difficulty or pain.
• With Dr. Ho's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing trouble controlling their muscles due to spasticity is focused on achieving achieving the best possible physical function given their underlying condition. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to their child being able to play and interact with peers more easily without dental concerns.
• Managing feeling exhausted all the time and having widespread muscle aches effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Ho and the dental team. The clear aim is always regaining strength and function in an injured limb, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying returning to their job or volunteer work and their daily routines without dental hindrance.
• Through Dr. Ho's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement often find they can readily achieve their child making significant progress in their physical development and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like being able to stand for periods needed for work or daily tasks.

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

Dr. Ho's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Kitsilano neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Downtown Financial District and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

Physiatrists like Dr. Ho treat a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Some common examples include the consequences of stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (including concussion), various sports injuries, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), chronic low back and neck pain, peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and conditions requiring amputation rehabilitation. Dr. Ho's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients with physical impairments.

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

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

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity of muscles, while Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Ho might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to help diagnose conditions like 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 treatment.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Ho is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, muscles, and tendons. Their primary goal is to improve function, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life for people with physical impairments from injury or illness. They use non-surgical treatments like medication, therapeutic exercises, injections (when appropriate), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

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 diseases of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, often with medication. Physiatrists like Dr. Ho focus on optimizing function and quality of life through non-surgical means, rehabilitation planning, and managing disabilities across a spectrum of conditions. They often take a holistic view, coordinating multidisciplinary care.

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

Your first visit with Dr. Ho will involve a comprehensive assessment, including a discussion of your medical history, symptoms, and how they impact your life. Dr. Ho will perform a thorough physical examination, review any prior imaging or test results, and discuss their diagnostic impressions. They will then outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to set functional goals.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Ho 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. Ho are covered by provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and an appropriate referral (if required). However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive programs) may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check your private insurance coverage.

301-1541 Broadway W, Canadian Pain & Regenerative Institute
Vancouver, BC, V6J 1W7

Phone: (604) 260-4481

Dr. Richard Kar-Tung Ho 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: 30903

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/339219/Ho%2CRichard

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