Dr. Steven Randal Matthew Helper

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Steven Randal Matthew Helper addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Neurological Conditions

• Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident - CVA) Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation for individuals who have experienced an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Maximizing functional independence and quality of life for patients with paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Helping patients regain mobility, strength, and independence after major surgical interventions.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Treating joint pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases.
• Tendonitis & Bursitis: Addressing soft tissue inflammation around joints to relieve pain and restore normal movement.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A multimodal approach to complex pain conditions involving muscles and connective tissues.

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

• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Multidisciplinary approach to manage concussion and post-concussion syndrome, as well as more severe TBI outcomes.
• Management of Back & Neck Pain: Comprehensive care for spinal disorders, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and prevention of recurrence.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Non-operative care for joint disorders, including therapeutic injections, bracing, and exercise prescription.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Creating multidisciplinary treatment strategies involving therapies, assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications to optimize recovery and function.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Helper. 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. Steven Randal Matthew Helper 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 Kinetix Medicine: Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Helper frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• Patients frequently come to Dr. Helper with concerns about difficulty swallowing or speaking clearly after a neurological event. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve achieving a better overall sense of well-being and physical comfort, making a positive and lasting return to lifting and carrying their young child or pet not just possible, but highly feasible.
• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing wanting to find non-surgical ways to manage their chronic joint pain, involves working systematically towards being able to manage their symptoms with less reliance on pain medication. Dr. Helper expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including returning to their job or volunteer work.
• Through Dr. Helper's skilled guidance and modern dental techniques, patients suffering from struggling with everyday tasks like dressing or cooking due to severe arthritis pain often find they can readily achieve enhanced ability to manage spasticity or muscle stiffness and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like getting in and out of a chair or bed with greater ease.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Helper when they first notice trouble controlling their muscles due to spasticity. Through personalized dental care, the goal is to achieve improved mobility and ability to walk further or more easily, enabling them to once again enjoy managing their energy levels better throughout the day without hesitation.

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

Kinetix Medicine: Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine, where Dr. Helper practices, is situated in the Kerrisdale South, Dunbar South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Brittania Community 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. Helper treats?

Dr. Helper 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. Helper's focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Helper at Kinetix Medicine: Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine?

Your first visit with Dr. Helper will involve a comprehensive assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, your current symptoms, how these symptoms affect your daily life, and any previous treatments. Dr. Helper will then perform a thorough physical examination focusing on the relevant systems (musculoskeletal and/or neurological). Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Helper will discuss their findings, may recommend further investigations, and will outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to set functional goals.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity of muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Helper might recommend these tests to 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 is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at Kinetix Medicine: Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine?

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. Helper. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed without notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee at the clinic. We appreciate your cooperation.

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

In BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required for consultations and treatments covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Helper has the necessary background information. Speak with your primary care physician if you believe you need a physiatric assessment.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Helper 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 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, injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

How long will my treatment or rehabilitation with Dr. Helper take?

The duration of treatment varies greatly depending on the specific condition, its severity, your goals, your response to treatment, and the complexity of the rehabilitation plan. Some conditions may require only a few consultations, while others may involve longer-term management. Dr. Helper will discuss an estimated timeline after the initial assessment.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Helper covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by Dr. Helper are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided you have a valid health card and an appropriate referral. However, some specific treatments or procedures may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with Kinetix Medicine about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage.

Kinetix Medicine: Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine
2225 Broadway W, Kinetix Integrated Orthopaedic & Regenerative Medicine
Vancouver, BC, V6K 2E4

Phone: (604) 416-0630 | Website: http://vancouverspinedoctor.com/

Dr. Steven Randal Matthew Helper 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: 29621

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/327550/Helper%2CSteven

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