Dr. Sibi Thirunavukkarasu – Neurologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Sibi Thirunavukkarasu is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the highest quality of patient care.

He graduated with an MBBS degree from India and has completed extensive postgraduate training in neurology. Dr. Thirunavukkarasu holds the necessary certifications and licensure to practice as a Neurologist in Alberta, including certification from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His training encompasses a broad scope of neurological expertise, equipping him to address complex nervous system disorders with confidence and precision.

Dr. Thirunavukkarasu is committed to patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. He believes in ongoing education and support for his patients, fostering an environment where individuals and their families feel empowered and informed. Fluent in English and Tamil, he offers clear communication and compassionate guidance, dedicated to improving the neurological well-being of his patients in Edmonton.

Dr. Sibi Thirunavukkarasu addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Movement Disorders

• Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.
• Parkinson's Disease: A progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement, often including tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically because of an uncomfortable sensation.

Headache Disorders

• Cluster Headache: Intensely painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or cluster periods, one of the most severe types of pain known.
• Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
• Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Sibi Thirunavukkarasu.

• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Thirunavukkarasu for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of S Central: University of Alberta, Garneau, Windsor Park, the neurology department is situated within a well-equipped hospital facility in Edmonton. The clinic is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, making it convenient for patients traveling from all parts of the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility needs. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing ease and flexibility for patients visiting for appointments. Edmonton’s local sports fans can enjoy the nearby Edmonton Elks CFL Team and Major Events, making the location a hub of community activity and accessibility.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Thirunavukkarasu, a Neurologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Thirunavukkarasu, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Thirunavukkarasu's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Thirunavukkarasu, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Thirunavukkarasu for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Thirunavukkarasu will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.

What are the treatment options for epilepsy?

The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Thirunavukkarasu can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

What does a Neurologist like Dr. Thirunavukkarasu specialize in?

A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Thirunavukkarasu is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 407-7363 | Fax: (780) 407-6020

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Thirunavukkarasu is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Thirunavukkarasu for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=2240ef12-6671-4630-a4f1-e7ee33790d42&i=1439