In this video, Dr. Plamondon describes the medical specialty of Physiatry, a physiatrist’s role in the care of persons with neuropathy, and when a referral to one should be considered. She discusses how physiatrists work together with other specialists like physiotherapists, neurologists, and occupational therapists; and, shares information on physiatry resources in Southern Alberta.
Topic Timings:
- 00:00:00 Introduction and Overview
- 00:01:56 What is a Physiatrist?
- 00:09:11 How do they diagnose?
- 00:10:08 What role do Physiatrists have in treating Neuropathies?
- 00:10:41 Charcot Foot
- 00:11:55 Nerve testing’s ability to diagnose a spinal cord injury
- 00:13:07 Muscles contracting so as to restrict walking
- 00:14:34 An interdisciplinary medical team
- 00:15:38 Procedures PM&R specialists do
- 00:17:04 Core Values of PMR
- 00:21:43 Back Pain and Physiatrists
- 00:22:34 How to get a referral to a Physiatrist
- 00:23:47 Where to find her team
- 00:25:33 Patients with CMT (Charcot Marie Tooth)
- 00:26:21 Physiatry & Physical Therapy together
- 00:28:07 Medications for Neuropathic Pain
- — 00:31:44 (question out of order) Cannabinoids
- 00:28:37 Footwear & Ortho
- 00:29:39 Therapeutic Exercise
- 00:30:39 Custom Orthotics
- 00:40:55 Occupational Therapy
- 00:44:38 Patient and Family
- 00:46:23 What resources are available in Calgary & Area?
Please note: the Pedorthist Dr. Plamondon spoke of was Johan Steenwyk: https://pedorthic.ca/meet-a-pedorthist-johan-steenwyk/
About Dr. Plamondon
Dr. Stephanie Plamondon, MD, FRCPC is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Calgary, member of Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education. Dr. Plamondon trained in Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor in Ontario, completing her MD and PM&R residency at McMaster University. She is a former program director for the PM&R Residency Training program, PMR Quality Improvement lead, and member of the Cumming School of Medicine Health Humanities Committee at the University of Calgary. She has also led the Calgary zone certified Music therapy inpatient program for the last 5 years, and obtained certification in Patient Safety and Quality management, creating and currently co-chairing the Division Patient Safety and Quality Council. Her area of clinical practice is Adult Neuromuscular Rehabilitation.
Learn More with other CNA videos:
Your Support of Neuropathy Education is Appreciated:
The CNA exists solely because of donations and fundraising. If you are able, any support you can provide is greatly appreciated.
All contributions go towards online and in person meeting expenses, the CNA Website, educational material development and distribution.
Linda is an information technology business analyst and the current President of the CNA.