Dr. Shanker Nesathurai – Pain Management Specialist / Physical Therapist | Windsor, ON

Dr. Shanker Nesathurai is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at Orangeville Family Medical Centre in Windsor, ON, Dr. Nesathurai is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Nesathurai 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. Nesathurai 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. Nesathurai serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Shanker Nesathurai earned a Medical Degree in 1990. Subsequently, Dr. Nesathurai completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Nesathurai brings valuable clinical experience to their practice. Dr. Nesathurai's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Nesathurai is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Nesathurai'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; promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges. Dr. Nesathurai provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Shanker Nesathurai 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: Helping patients recover and adapt after a TBI to return to daily life, work, or school.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Symptom Management & Functional Rehab: Rehabilitative support for patients with MS to optimize mobility, energy conservation, and overall well-being.

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: Specialized care to optimize recovery and prevent re-injury in athletes of all levels.

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• 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

• 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.
• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Helping patients regain strength, endurance, and mobility to improve their ability to perform daily tasks.

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

• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Targeted injections to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve function in various musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
• 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.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs for patients recovering from mild, moderate, or severe traumatic brain injuries, addressing cognitive, physical, and behavioral sequelae.
• Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Managing the complex medical and functional consequences of spinal cord injury, aiming to optimize health, function, and community reintegration.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Nesathurai. 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. Shanker Nesathurai adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in ON and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Orangeville Family Medical Centre, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Nesathurai frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Nesathurai provides dedicated support for patients going through their neck pain giving them constant headaches, always aiming for positive outcomes like greater endurance and less fatigue during physical activity, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as attending social gatherings and community events with confidence.
• Patients presenting with their pain making it difficult to focus or concentrate can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of a noticeable improvement in their posture and body mechanics under Dr. Nesathurai's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume managing their energy levels better throughout the day without the former limitations or discomfort.
• For those affected by needing to learn how to use a prosthetic limb effectively, Dr. Nesathurai provides solutions that lead to restoration of more normal sensation in areas affected by neuropathy. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to being able to stand for periods needed for work or daily tasks.
• At Dr. Nesathurai's clinic, addressing the ongoing pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia impacting every part of their life means focusing on patient goals. Achieving improved bladder and bowel control helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to walking around their neighborhood or a park comfortably.

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

Dr. Nesathurai's practice, Orangeville Family Medical Centre, is situated in the Downtown Windsor neighborhood of Windsor. The clinic is conveniently located near University of Windsor (Main Campus) and is accessible via Transit Windsor. Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Nesathurai 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. Nesathurai are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON, 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 for patients to inquire with Orangeville Family Medical Centre about any potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and to check with their private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Nesathurai is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of 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 the quality of life for people with physical impairments or disabilities resulting 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.

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

Yes, in ON, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Nesathurai for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Nesathurai 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 some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. Nesathurai treats?

Dr. Nesathurai treats a variety of 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. The focus is on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

What are EMG and NCS tests, and why might Dr. Nesathurai 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. Nesathurai 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 is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at Orangeville Family Medical Centre?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Nesathurai. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient who may be waiting for care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently to serve all our patients.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Nesathurai at Orangeville Family Medical Centre?

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

Orangeville Family Medical Centre
Unit Suite 100, 1005 Ouellette Ave, Suite 100
Windsor, ON, N9A 4J8

Phone: (905) 977-9531

Dr. Shanker Nesathurai 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: 62259

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Nesathurai-Shanker/0048281-62259

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