Dr. Stephen Arthur Thompson – Neurologist | Hamilton, ON

Dr. Stephen Arthur Thompson 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 Hamilton, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. Dr. Thompson adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, ethical, and effective neurological care. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Patients and their families benefit from his expertise and compassionate approach in navigating complex neurological issues.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine in Canada and has over 12 years of experience practicing as a Neurologist since 2012. Recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), Dr. Thompson maintains a commitment to ongoing education and clinical excellence. His certifications reflect a rigorous training pathway and dedication to the highest standards of neurological practice.

Dr. Thompson’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. He believes in evidence-based medicine, ongoing patient education, and providing support tailored to each individual's needs. Fluent in English, he strives to foster clear communication and trust with his patients in Hamilton, ensuring they are active participants in their neurological health journey.

Dr. Stephen Thompson addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.

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.
• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.

Headache Disorders

• Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
• Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.

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

• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• 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.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Thompson 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Thompson's neurology practice is situated within a hospital department in Hamilton's North End, specifically in the Beasley neighbourhood. The location is conveniently accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) public transit, with stops nearby for easy patient access. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and independence for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexible parking solutions for those arriving by car. The practice is positioned close to the Hamilton Mountain Shopping Area and Lime Ridge Mall, making it easy for patients to combine their medical appointments with other errands or shopping.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Thompson, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Thompson, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Thompson's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Thompson 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. Thompson 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 can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Thompson?

Your first appointment with Dr. Thompson will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Thompson may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.

How does Dr. Thompson manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Thompson will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Thompson can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Thompson focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

237 Barton Street East
Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2

Phone: (905) 521-2100

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Thompson is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Thompson for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Thompson-Stephen-Arthur/0272640-95031