Jeffrey Begg
Clinical Practice Area: Musculoskeletal
Years in Practice: 25
Areas of Interest: Spinal injury, dizziness, and vertigo, tricky & persistent painful conditions
Why did you pursue the designation?
I’ve spent a lot of time trying to stay at the top of my field. I appreciated the opportunity to see if my colleagues agreed that I have. Also, for those of us in the middle of our careers, I think there is a healthy competitive edge that makes us want to keep on top and be recognized for it because there is a flood of brilliant new graduates at our doorstep.
Where do you see the profession in 25 years?
I believe the profession is in the birth pains of scientific validity, with the volume of research that is presently underway. This is necessary, but I fear that we may miss the mark, and downplay the role of nuance in our craft. I foresee a future where rigorous evidence continues to be pursued and valued, in strong balance with a reliance upon clinical reasoning, wisdom and personal connection with our patients. Perhaps we have passed from the “clinical guru era” of the 1970s and 80s, into the “scientific guru era” of the present, and are on our way to a nice symmetry between the two extremes.
I think there is a healthy competitive edge that makes us want to keep on top, and be recognized for it.
Biography
In practice since 1997, I am a certified manipulative physiotherapist with an interest in general orthopaedic physiotherapy, traumatic spinal injuries, dizziness/vertigo, arthritis care, and athletic injuries. I have 4 years of service to the American health care system, and have been happily practicing back in Edmonton since 2002. I am particularly interested in tricky painful conditions that have not responded to other therapies. I look for clues in the nuances of each person’s unique presentation. I am keen on collaboration, through regular case management meetings with my in-house colleagues, and mentorship of students and new graduates. I am of the belief that we are much better at understanding our particular field when we engage in teaching it to the next generation.
Designations
- Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (with distinction)
- Fellow, Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy
- Clinical Specialist (MSK); Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Alberta Dept. of Physical Therapy
- Injury Management Consultant, Alberta Auto Injury Program