Farris Kassam

Dr. Farris Kassam


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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12 May 2026 in Toxins
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
FKFarris Kassam
Farris Kassam
FMFraser MacRae
Fraser MacRae
LLLinden Lechner
Linden Lechner
HDHeather Dorothy Dow
Heather Dorothy Dow
ÈBÈve Boissonnault
Ève Boissonnault
PWPaul J Winston
Paul J Winston
Objectives: To investigate current Canadian physicians’ practice patterns of treating upper limb post-stroke spasticity (PSS) and hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) acutely after a stroke. In addition, by examining Canadian physicians’ diagnostic capabilities, time till treatment, minimum criteria to begin treatment, mechanisms of treatment, targeting of muscles, and benefits and adverse effects of treatment, we aim to learn about areas of improvement to optimize PSS management for Canadians. Design: The present study was a cross-sectional survey, polling practicing Canadian physicians. Results: A total of 17 physicians completed the survey, all PM&R specialists, save one neurologist. Four provinces were represented in the responses. Participants had, on average, over ten years of experience managing post-stroke spasticity in outpatient and inpatient clinics. All 17 perform botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) injections for HSP associated with PSS. Most participants reported that they will begin BoNT-A treatments 2–3 weeks post-stroke, most commonly targeting the pectoralis major, subscapularis, and latissimus dorsi. Participants reported the mean median dosage they use as onabotulinum toxin A (169.12 units, SD = 73.70), incobotulinum toxin A (178.13 units, SD = 65.75), and abobotulinum toxin A (470.83 units, SD = 171.17). For injection guidance, participants responded that they use ultrasound for the largest percentage of their caseload, followed by electromyography, then electrical stimulation, then palpation. Very seldom did participants use palpation alone. Conclusions: From the limited sample included in analyses, the Canadian physicians respondents seem to be treating HSP and associated PSS with variable strategies. Further research is required to align dosages, targets, and guidance strategies as they vary considerably.