Dr. Sachin Rathee – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Vancouver, BC

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

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

Key aspects of Dr. Rathee's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in rehabilitation techniques; promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges. Dr. Rathee provides consultations in English.

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

Neurological Conditions

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Symptom Management & Functional Rehab: Rehabilitative support for patients with MS to optimize mobility, energy conservation, and overall well-being.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Addressing disorders of the peripheral nervous system to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation strategies to improve mobility, balance, gait, and performance of daily activities for individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Chronic Widespread Pain: Addressing persistent pain that affects multiple body regions, often associated with conditions like fibromyalgia or central sensitization.
• 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): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.
• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Comprehensive care for individuals with limb loss, including pre-prosthetic management, prosthetic prescription, gait training, and adjustment to life with a prosthesis.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.
• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Rathee, 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: Specialized rehabilitation to help patients with spinal cord injuries achieve their maximum potential for independence.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Utilizing diagnostic ultrasound imaging for real-time assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Diagnostic procedures to evaluate the health of muscles and the nerves that control them.
• Sports Injury Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs for sprains, strains, tendon injuries, and other sports-related conditions.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Expert diagnosis and management of axial and radicular pain originating from the spine.

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

• When their child not meeting developmental milestones related to movement begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Rathee helps patients strive for being able to perform daily self-care tasks independently again. This makes participating in activities such as reaching for items on high shelves a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Dr. Rathee understands that dealing with trouble with their memory and concentration after a head injury can be challenging. That's why his treatment plans are geared towards achieving a personalized plan that addresses all aspects of their physical impairment, helping patients comfortably get back to lifting and carrying their young child or pet and feeling their best.
• When not being able to use their hand effectively after a nerve injury starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to carrying groceries or other everyday items, Dr. Rathee and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by feeling stronger and more capable in their daily movements and a return to comfort and confidence.
• Dr. Rathee often consults with patients whose their child having movement difficulties due to cerebral palsy or another condition significantly limits their enjoyment of bending down or kneeling without severe discomfort or impacts their self-confidence. The clear goal of care is to achieve their functional goals being met through a tailored rehabilitation program and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.

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

Dr. Rathee's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Kitsilano neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Harbour Centre and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

Dr. Rathee treats a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. 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. Rathee's focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

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

Yes, Physiatrists like Dr. Rathee are experts in the non-surgical management of acute and chronic back and neck pain. After a thorough assessment to determine the cause, treatment may include personalized exercise programs, medication management (e.g., anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications), advice on posture and ergonomics, referrals for physical therapy, and potentially therapeutic injections (such as epidural steroid injections or trigger point injections, if these are part of Dr. Rathee's practice and appropriate for the patient's condition) to improve function and reduce pain.

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

In BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Rathee for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Rathee 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 EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Rathee 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. Rathee 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. Rathee 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. Rathee are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, 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 to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and to check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

Does Dr. Rathee work with other healthcare professionals as part of a rehabilitation team?

Physiatrists like Dr. Rathee often work with a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, social workers, kinesiologists, orthotists/prosthetists, and other medical specialists. Dr. Rathee coordinates with these professionals to ensure a holistic approach to patient recovery and functional improvement. You can ask Dr. Rathee about team members involved in your care.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Rathee 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.

301-1541 Broadway W
Vancouver, BC, V6J 1W7

Phone: (604) 260-4481

Dr. Sachin Rathee 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: 44786

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/372788/Rathee%2CSachin

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