Dr. Brett Friedrich Wegenast – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Brett Friedrich Wegenast is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Calgary, AB, Dr. Wegenast is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Wegenast is licensed by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of the medical profession in AB. As a certified specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (also known as a Physiatrist), Dr. Wegenast focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with a wide range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. The goal is to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities.

Dr. Brett Friedrich Wegenast earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Uofa - University Of Alberta, graduating in 2017. Subsequently, Dr. Wegenast completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 8 years of practice since 2017, Dr. Wegenast's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. Wegenast is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. Wegenast's medical practice philosophy include: promoting optimal quality of life and helping patients adapt to and overcome physical challenges; a holistic perspective, considering the physical, emotional, and social aspects of disability and recovery. Dr. Wegenast serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration. Dr. Wegenast provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Brett Friedrich Wegenast addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Low Back Pain & Neck Pain (Non-Surgical): Comprehensive non-operative care for spinal pain, focusing on pain relief, functional restoration, and preventative strategies.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Arthritic Conditions: Management strategies for arthritis, including medication, injections, bracing, and exercise programs to improve joint function and reduce pain.
• Fibromyalgia & Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Managing widespread musculoskeletal pain, tender points, fatigue, and sleep disturbances associated with fibromyalgia.

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

• Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries: Non-operative treatment and rehabilitation for common sports injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains, tendon injuries, and stress fractures.
• Overuse Injuries in Athletes: Managing conditions caused by repetitive stress and overuse, such as tendinopathies, shin splints, or stress reactions.

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

• Therapeutic Injections (Joints, Soft Tissues, Nerves): Minimally invasive procedures to deliver medication directly to the source of pain or inflammation for therapeutic benefit.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Helping individuals with TBI improve cognitive function, physical abilities, and psychosocial adjustment.
• Coordination of Multidisciplinary Care: Facilitating communication and collaboration among various therapists and specialists involved in a patient's care.
• Medication Management for Pain & Spasticity: Careful selection and adjustment of medications to manage complex pain syndromes and muscle spasticity.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose soft tissue injuries, guide injections, and monitor treatment progress.

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

At Dr. Brett Friedrich Wegenast'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. Wegenast frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of recovering from a major surgery and needing help to get moving again, Dr. Wegenast offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach improved balance and reduced risk of falls. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of traveling and going on vacations.
• If needing to find better ways to cope with daily pain and its impact on their mental health is preventing you from fully enjoying using their prosthetic limb with skill and confidence or causing discomfort, Dr. Wegenast offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve their child achieving better motor skills and functional independence through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• For those affected by wanting to improve their posture and body mechanics to reduce strain, Dr. Wegenast provides solutions that lead to learning effective strategies to cope with chronic pain or disability. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to dressing, bathing, and grooming themselves without assistance.
• Dr. Wegenast provides dedicated support for patients going through needing to learn how to use a prosthetic limb effectively, always aiming for positive outcomes like feeling more confident in their physical abilities, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as driving their car independently.

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

Dr. Wegenast's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Calgary, is situated in the NE: Tuxedo Park, Highland Park, Greenview neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near Telus Sky and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

Dr. Wegenast treats a wide range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Examples include the consequences of stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (including concussion), various sports injuries, arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), chronic low back and neck pain, peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and conditions requiring amputation rehabilitation. His focus is always on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing the patient's overall quality of life.

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

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

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, while Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly and well electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. Wegenast might recommend these electrodiagnostic tests to help diagnose conditions such as pinched nerves (radiculopathy), carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), 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. Wegenast do?

A Physiatrist like Dr. Wegenast 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 (where appropriate), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. Wegenast 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. Wegenast are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, provided the patient has 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 applicable, regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

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

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

325 Manning Rd NE
Calgary, AB, T2E 2P5

Phone: (403) 265-3838

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

License Number: 23404

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=14c306e7-f6b2-434b-acff-afe23bfe5d9d&i=1538

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