Class of 2004 Alumnus is a ‘Doctor of Function’

Class of 2004 alumnus Dr. Alexander Carrese turned his love of learning and belief in compassionate patient care into a career of helping others as a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician at Interventional Spine & Sports Medicine, PC., in Middlebury, Conn.

With a focus in Interventional Spine, Musculoskeletal, Pain and Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Alex works to restore movement and function to his patients. Aside from medicine, he performs a plethora of procedures including joint injections, electrodiagnostic studies, spine injections, and hands-on osteopathic manipulation (OMM).

“We are doctors of function,” said Alex. “Our primary goal is to help patients function better whether it be deficits from an accident, a stroke, or traumatic brain injury. Although it can be challenging at times, it is also extremely rewarding to establish a connection with patients and help them because ultimately my goal is to get them functioning better and home safely.”

Alex grew up surrounded by the healthcare industry as his father is an OBGYN. But it was a childhood medical experience that ultimately was the catalyst for his professional career path. Alex was diagnosed with a hip condition called Perthes Disease, which resulted in multiple surgeries starting at the age of 7. With the constant doctor visits, he developed a rapport with his care team and the positive patient care experience aided in his decision to pursue a medical career.

Following his graduation from Union College in 2008, Alex took about five years off before applying to medical school. He noted that the decision gave him the opportunity to mature and be ready for the rigorous schedule and demands of a degree in the field. He went on to enroll at Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine and graduated with his doctorate degree in 2017. It was in his second year when he met his mentor, Dr. Hogarty, who introduced him to the field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. After one rotation, Alex said he knew it was the perfect specialization. He then completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Sparrow Hospital in 2021. 

Alex noted that during a rotation in his third year of residency, he got the opportunity to travel to Zambia, Africa. He worked at the University of Lusaka and was able to visit Victoria Falls. He noted that “seeing medicine in another country was a unique experience that I think every doctor should try to do.”