Dr. Maurice Daniel McGowan – Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Maurice Daniel McGowan is a Physiatrist / Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist. Practicing at a rehabilitation clinic in Calgary, AB, Dr. McGowan is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. McGowan 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. McGowan 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. McGowan serves patients of all ages, from children and adolescents through to adults and seniors, requiring functional restoration.

Dr. Maurice Daniel McGowan earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Memorial University, graduating in 1985. Subsequently, Dr. McGowan completed advanced specialty training in Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). With over 40 years of practice since 1985, Dr. McGowan's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry). Dr. McGowan is dedicated to ongoing professional development and continuing medical education to provide up-to-date, evidence-based care.

Key aspects of Dr. McGowan's medical practice philosophy include: empowering patients through education about their condition and active participation in their treatment plan; collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. McGowan provides consultations in English.

As a Physiatrist, Dr. Maurice Daniel McGowan addresses a variety of conditions related to physical function, pain, and rehabilitation, including but not limited to:

Chronic Pain Syndromes

• Chronic Widespread Pain: Developing strategies to cope with and reduce the burden of chronic widespread pain.
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Treatment aimed at reducing severe pain, swelling, skin changes, and functional impairment associated with CRPS.

Neurological Conditions

• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Management & Rehabilitation: Long-term care and rehabilitation for individuals with traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, addressing paralysis, spasticity, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and other complications.
• Parkinson's Disease - Functional Rehabilitation: Therapeutic interventions to address motor symptoms like rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

Debilitating Conditions Functional Improvement

• Amputation Rehabilitation & Prosthetic Management: Helping amputees achieve optimal function, comfort, and independence with their prosthetic devices.
• Debility & Deconditioning (e.g., post-illness, hospitalization): Rehabilitation programs to address generalized weakness, fatigue, and loss of function following prolonged illness, hospitalization, or inactivity.

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

• Comprehensive Physiatric Assessment: Thorough evaluation of musculoskeletal, neurological, and functional status, including detailed history, physical examination, and review of imaging/diagnostic tests.
• Chronic Pain Management (Multimodal Approach): A holistic approach to chronic pain that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the pain experience.
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Specialized therapies to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges following a stroke.
• Spasticity Management (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections): Targeted injections to manage disabling muscle stiffness and spasms, enhancing comfort and functional abilities.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs for patients recovering from mild, moderate, or severe traumatic brain injuries, addressing cognitive, physical, and behavioral sequelae.

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

At Dr. Maurice Daniel McGowan'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. McGowan frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• If needing support to navigate the complexities of their rehabilitation journey is preventing you from fully enjoying navigating their home environment safely and independently or causing discomfort, Dr. McGowan offers expert dental solutions. The primary aim is to achieve a smoother transition back to community living after hospitalization through comprehensive and personalized dental care.
• When their knee pain stopping them from climbing stairs or kneeling begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. McGowan helps patients strive for a safe and effective exercise program tailored to their abilities. This makes participating in activities such as performing tasks that require fine motor coordination a pleasant and possible experience again.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for needing to find better ways to cope with daily pain and its impact on their mental health at Dr. McGowan's practice is consistently achieving enhanced ability to manage spasticity or muscle stiffness. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and grooming themselves without assistance.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. McGowan to see patients who were troubled by a sports injury that's keeping them off the field successfully achieve gaining the skills and support needed to live a more active and fulfilling life. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like being able to stand for periods needed for work or daily tasks.

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

Dr. McGowan's practice, a rehabilitation clinic in Calgary, is situated in the NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood of Calgary. The clinic is conveniently located near North Hill Centre and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). Please inquire about specific parking arrangements if you have mobility concerns.

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

Electromyography (EMG) evaluates the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles, and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) measure how quickly and well electrical signals travel along nerves. Dr. McGowan 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 are some common conditions a Physiatrist like Dr. McGowan treats?

Physiatrists like Dr. McGowan treat a wide range of 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. McGowan focuses on improving function, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life related to these and other physical impairments.

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

A Physiatrist like Dr. McGowan 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. They use non-surgical treatments including medication, therapeutic exercise programs, targeted injections (where applicable), and coordinate comprehensive rehabilitation plans often involving a team of therapists.

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

In Alberta, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Physiatrist like Dr. McGowan 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. McGowan has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a physiatric assessment.

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

Your first visit with Dr. McGowan 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. McGowan will perform a thorough physical examination, reviewing any prior imaging or test results. Based on this evaluation, Dr. McGowan will discuss diagnostic impressions, recommend further investigations if needed, and outline potential treatment and rehabilitation options, working with you to establish functional goals.

Are services provided by a Physiatrist like Dr. McGowan 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. McGowan are covered by provincial health plans such as Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB, with a valid health card and appropriate referral. However, some specific treatments or procedures (e.g., certain injections, assistive devices, comprehensive multidisciplinary programs) may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage for adjunctive therapies or devices.

1403 29 St NW, AC-144
Calgary, AB, T2N 2T9

Phone: (403) 944-4500

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

License Number: 9764

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=bad1dcda-b303-447c-bc9d-95d9a21f6e3f&i=958

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