Clinician Spotlight: Alex Singh

As part of Balance Awareness Week, we’re featuring Alex Singh, Clinic Team Manager and Physiotherapist at Trafalgar Physiotherapy pt Health in Oakville, Ontario.

Alex dispels some common vestibular myths, explains why you should give vestibular rehab a try if you’re experiencing dizziness or vertigo, and shares some facts about himself.

Can you tell us about your education?

I studied at McMaster University where I got my undergraduate degree in kinesiology. I then went on to complete my Masters of Science in Physiotherapy at the University of Toronto.

Since then, I finished the Vestibular Rehabilitation: A Competency Based Course at Emory University which certifies as a vestibular rehabilitation provider. I also completed two Complete Concussion Management courses, received my Advanced Diploma in Manual and Manipulative Therapy (FCAMPT) and got my certification in dry needling.

Do you have an area of focus or special interest?

Yes, my area of particular interest is vestibular rehabilitation, concussion management, and tendinopathies (injuries or dysfunction of the tendons like tendonitis).

What is your Motto or Personal Mantra?

“Every day, try a little harder to be a little better.”

As part of your practice you perform vestibular rehabilitation, can you talk a bit about what that is?

Vestibular rehabilitation is a type of therapy that focuses on helping people who are suffering from:

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Nausea
• Imbalance

When you come to me with these issues, I start with a thorough assessment to get an accurate diagnosis of the cause and the best possible treatment. When the correct diagnosis has been identified, a treatment plan is developed which may include hands-on treatments as well as exercise-based interventions to improve head and eye coordination as well as balance.

When would someone want to ask about vestibular rehabilitation?

If they feel they are having trouble with dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, and nausea they should ask their healthcare professional, physiotherapist, nurse, doctor, about whether they are a good candidate for vestibular rehabilitation. However, you don’t need a doctor’s referral to see me or any other physiotherapist for vestibular rehabilitation.

What is one of your favourite stories of how you helped a patient?

Two come to mind. One had suffered from BPPV, the most common cause of vertigo, since she was a little girl and she was now in her 70s still living with the problem. I was able to help her get rid of her symptoms. Another one was a young girl who was quite literally disabled by her dizziness that was a result of a vestibular dysfunction following an ear infection, and we were able to get her life back.

To end on a bit of a personal note, what might someone be surprised to know about you?

I love physical activity, can juggle, I am half Guyanese half Italian.

Book your next appointment with Alex at Trafalgar Physiotherapy, if you live or work in the Oakville, Burlington, or Hamilton area, Trafalgar Physiotherapy is easily accessible for you. Learn more about our vestibular rehabilitation on our services page.