Meet Dr. Ryan Wagemakers
Changing Course
Calgary chiropractor Dr. Ryan Wagemakers didn’t begin his career in health care. He first completed a neuroscience degree at the University of Alberta and worked as a biologist. But in the early 2000s, he went through his own health challenges. When the conventional medical route offered only symptom-suppressing options, he decided to try chiropractic as a last resort.
His chiropractor explained how the nervous system helps the body organise, regulate, and adapt—an approach that resonated with Dr. Wagemakers. Even more meaningful was how much better he felt after his first adjustment. He also noticed that the people around him looked happy, energetic, and genuinely well. That experience shifted the direction of his life. Instead of continuing his work as a biologist, he chose a path that allowed him to help people feel and function at their best.
Dr. Wagemakers went on to graduate from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 2008.
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Over nearly two decades in practice, Dr. Wagemakers has sought out ongoing education from many respected voices within chiropractic. His training includes:
- Five years of mentorship through Epic Practice, learning under Dr. Tony Ebel’s pediatric program and working with Dr. David Jackson
- Chiropractic Leadership Alliance training, including time at “the mountain” with Dr. David Fletcher
- Multiple seminars with Dr. Heidi Haavik, expanding his understanding of the brain-chiropractic connection
- Completion of Dr. James Chestnut’s Eat Well, Move Well, Think Well (Parts 1-3) and several additional wellness seminars
- Hands-on training with Dr. Tim Young, a Torque Release Technique seminars, and certification in Active Release Techniques® (ART®)
- Participation in a chiropractic mission trip to Brazil
- Attendance at Parker Seminars, CalJam (U.S.), KelJam (Canada), and four years as a student clinic class representative at Palmer
- Ongoing involvement in CNAC, CCOA, CCA, ACA, CPA, and the Calgary Chiropractic Society
- Weekly research updates through Dr. Shawn Thistle’s Research Review Program
- Annual first aid certification, trauma-informed care training, and volunteer work as a Scouter with Beavers and Cubs
- Completion of more than 24 hours of continuing education every year since entering practice
Changing Lives
After many years in practice, Dr. Wagemakers still finds joy in seeing people experience better function, greater ease, and a higher quality of life. He believes in helping individuals understand how their bodies work and how much influence they can have over their own health.
Away From the Office
When he isn’t in practice, Dr. Wagemakers enjoys spending time with his wife, Natalie (his first friend in life) and their three children. As lifelong Calgarians, they love being outdoors together: skiing, rollerblading, walking, and exploring the beauty of the community they call home.
Schedule Today
Contact Memorial Drive Chiropractic and Massage today to book your first appointment with Dr. Wagemakers.
