Abeed Hirji

Abeed graduated from both Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia in 2004, with a Bachelor of Kinesiology and a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy degree, respectively. Abeed has also achieved his Competency Certification (Advanced) in Vestibular Rehabilitation from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA (2007) and Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, NC (2009); under the guidance of Dr. Susan Herdman and Dr. Richard Clendaniel and their esteemed vestibular competency faculty associates.

Abeed’s curiosity and fascination for persons dealing with dizziness and balance issues stems from a couple of crucial conversations he had with colleagues in the early 2000’s. The first was with his lead neuropsychologist while working in a concussion clinic. It was at this time where he quickly began to understand that there was a gap in how we were addressing these symptoms, which at times could be very distressing for people. The second was with his then primary care physician (PCP). He was made aware from this PCP, that a common sentiment amongst the medical field was that the source of these symptoms was largely psycho-emotional. This didn’t sit well with Abeed and so his journey began into the world of vestibular medicine and rehabilitation. One of the first things he found out was that there were many, many, reasons why someone could be dizzy, but a significant percentage of dizziness was attributed to dysfunction within the vestibular system.  

Since these early discussions with his colleagues, Abeed has honed his skills in the assessment and treatment of patients with dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders, concussions, and other forms of traumatic brain injuries. His continued verve and passion for treating patients with these issues still exists now almost 20 years into his career. He is willing to accept challenges, question norms, and push boundaries for the betterment of his patients.

He has been featured on local radio shows, has had articles published in various subscriptions, and has been fortunate to consult with a wide array of patients including members of the Vancouver Canucks and Vancouver Whitecaps FC organizations.

Abeed is a committed, perpetual student who highly values continuing education and collaboration with his colleagues. He is constantly immersing himself in literature and lectures that benefit his patients.  He is also a big believer in sharing knowledge and building intellectual capacities amongst his peers. He strives to translate and bridge information, thereby filling the knowledge gaps in the fields of Vestibular Rehabilitation and Concussion Care. This is proven by his track record of delivering over 100 presentations since 2006. He believes that continuing to share knowledge with others will hopefully lead to better solutions and outcomes for persons living with dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. To quote the late Dr. Charles Everett Koop, "No prescription is better than Knowledge."