Practitioner Get to Know You Questions
Alyssa Gowan
Why did I choose osteopathy as a career choice?
I've always been interested in the body, movement, and health. Growing up, I spent a lot of time getting treated by various health professionals for sports injuries. I first saw an osteopath in high school and was intrigued by the unique, interrelated approach of osteopathy. I responded well to treatment, and as I learned more about osteopathy through my studies, I knew I had made the right choice!
Do you have a favorite treatment success story?
A memorable experience early in my career was a patient who had open heart surgery following a heart attack several months prior. He was experiencing extreme pain and was unable to function in his daily life. He had seen several cardiac and pain specialists, and all the tests on his heart were normal. He was frustrated and defeated, as he felt no one believed him. After observations of abnormalities in his sternum in our sessions, he went back to his physician for further inquiry, and it was found his sternum never healed properly from surgery and he had a bone infection. Fortunately, he was able to get appropriate treatment for the infection. This was an important reminder to me to look at the whole person, trust my instincts, and advocate for yourself when something doesn't feel right.
What brings you the greatest joy?
Generally: spending quality time with family and friends, time in nature, and exploring new places. As far as work, it is very rewarding to make a difference in someone's quality of life and watch them evolve into their highest self when all aspects of their life begin to align.