Dr. Alexander Wasserman

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Alexander Wasserman 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.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussion Rehabilitation: Managing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of head injuries, from mild concussions to severe TBI.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Diagnosing and managing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by damage to peripheral nerves (e.g., diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy).

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Neuropathic Pain (Nerve Pain): Addressing chronic pain conditions caused by nerve injury or disease.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of CRPS (formerly RSD), a chronic pain condition typically affecting an arm or leg after an injury or trauma.

Post Surgical Rehab

• Post-Operative Rehabilitation (e.g., after joint replacement, spine surgery): Developing rehabilitation plans to optimize outcomes following surgeries like total knee/hip replacement, rotator cuff repair, or spinal fusion.

Sports Injuries Rehab

• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.
• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Specialized care to optimize recovery and prevent re-injury in athletes of all levels.

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

• Management of Neuromuscular Disorders (e.g., MS, Parkinson's): Managing symptoms and functional limitations associated with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, ALS, and muscular dystrophies.
• Electrodiagnostic Medicine (EMG/NCS): Specialized nerve testing to identify conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, radiculopathy (pinched nerves), peripheral neuropathy, and muscle diseases.
• Treatment of Joint Pain (Arthritis, Tendinopathies): Non-operative care for joint disorders, including therapeutic injections, bracing, and exercise prescription.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.
• Individualized Rehabilitation Program Design: Developing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation plans tailored to individual needs, goals, and specific conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Wasserman. 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. Alexander Wasserman adhere to the scope of practice for Physiatrists in AB and the standards of The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Alexander Wasserman's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to maximize your functional abilities, manage your condition effectively, and improve your overall quality of life. Dr. Wasserman frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from the frustration of not being able to do the hobbies they once loved due to pain or disability to wellness often involves Dr. Wasserman's dedicated care. The milestone is improved bladder and bowel control, which opens the door back to activities such as enjoying hobbies like painting, knitting, or playing a musical instrument.
• With Dr. Wasserman's compassionate and skilled dental care, managing feeling unsteady on their feet and worrying about falls is focused on achieving better sleep quality due to reduced pain or discomfort. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to gardening or doing yard work again without dental concerns.
• For patients where trouble with bladder or bowel control related to a neurological condition is a primary concern, Dr. Wasserman focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in a clear understanding of their condition and a personalized rehabilitation plan. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully reaching for items on high shelves.
• Managing difficulty walking and keeping their balance since their stroke effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Wasserman and the dental team. The clear aim is always enhanced ability to manage spasticity or muscle stiffness, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying feeling physically capable of handling unexpected daily challenges and their daily routines without dental hindrance.

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

Dr. Wasserman's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Calgary, is situated in the SW: Bankview, South Calgary (Marda Loop area) neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Calgary Tower and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Designated accessible parking spots are often located close to the entrance.

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

In Alberta, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. Wasserman for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Wasserman has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need a physiatric assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

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

The duration of treatment and rehabilitation varies greatly depending on the specific condition, its severity, your individual goals, your response to treatment, and the complexity of the rehabilitation plan. Some conditions may require only a few consultations and a home program, while others (like recovery from a significant stroke or spinal cord injury) can involve longer-term management and therapy. Dr. Wasserman will discuss an estimated timeline and expected milestones after the initial assessment and as treatment progresses.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Wasserman covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP))?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Physiatrist like Dr. Wasserman are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, provided you have a valid health card and an appropriate referral if required by the plan or clinic. However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain types of injections, assistive devices, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees for materials or facility use. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs for recommended treatments and check with your private insurance, if any, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

What are some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. Wasserman treats?

Physiatrists like Dr. Wasserman treat diverse conditions, including 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. Wasserman focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Wasserman at the clinic?

Your first visit with Dr. Wasserman will involve a comprehensive assessment including a detailed discussion of your medical history, current symptoms, their impact on daily life, and previous treatments. Dr. Wasserman will perform a thorough physical examination (musculoskeletal and/or neurological). Prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Wasserman will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outline treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates skeletal muscle electrical activity, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Wasserman might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to diagnose conditions such as 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 further treatment.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. Wasserman is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, 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 from injury or illness. They use non-surgical treatments including medication, therapeutic exercise programs, targeted injections (if applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

1608 17 Ave SW, Alberta Neurologic Centre
Calgary, AB, T2T 0E3

Phone: (587) 747-5615 | Website: https://www.ancentre.ca/

Dr. Alexander Wasserman is a licensed Physiatrist in AB, regulated by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act (Alberta).

License Number: 30213

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=d1fc41fe-0d93-4545-b26e-f723c25b9db9&i=1532

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