PainCare - Pain Management in New Hampshire

Treatment Philosophy

 Dr. O'Connell believes that chronic pain is far more effectively treated using a comprehensive approach rather than a single type of treatment. "So-called 'block clinics' are a waste of patient resources and insurance subscriber premiums. To be evaluated by a pain specialist who only knows how to do epidural injections means that, no matter what ails the patient, epidurals will tend to be administered. What the vast majority of pain sufferers require is a blend of options to include possible injections, medications, surgical implants, counseling, physical therapeutic modalities, alternative approaches or a combination of some or all of the above."

Treatment Philosophy

PainCare welcomes Dr. Schermerhorn to its outstanding staff of pain management specialists.

Treatment Philosophy

As a pain management physiatrist, Dr. Tung's goal is to alleviate pain in order to maximize functional recovery. "My patients can get back to living their lives instead of being preoccupied with pain." Dr. Tung believes that treating pain, especially chronic pain, with medications alone is not beneficial. "Pain is multifaceted, usually having a specific 'pain generator,' a generalized central nervous system response to pain, a psychosocial component, and sometimes a related physical impairment. To effectively treat pain, we must address all of these components. As every patient's pain history is unique, the treatment plan must be individualized."

Treatment Philosophy

"When a patient makes his or her way to our clinic, it is clear they are nearing the end of healthy coping abilities. It is my responsibility to help guide these patients in a positive and healthy direction. I try to do this by listening and letting them know that this a journey, it will not be a “quick fix,” and we will have to work together. Far too many times people with chronic pain syndromes are brushed aside, given narcotics and forgotten. When they return they are viewed as problem patients and ultimately branded an “issue” and abandoned. My goal is to utilize early intervention to avoid these common pitfalls and, above all, demonstrate a long-term commitment to their healing.

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe in treating each patient individually - avoiding the cookbook approach to medicine by more thoughtfully matching a wide range of treatment methods to the specific pain diagnosis and patient lifestyle." It is Chris' opinion that injections and blocks can be surprisingly useful as much for diagnostic as for therapeutic purposes. "You can have all the MRI's in the world and still have the wrong pain diagnosis."

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe in treating the whole person, not just the specific complaint that brought him/her in to the center. Accordingly, I make aggressive use of adjunctive therapies in my practice rather than relying solely on conventional medications and injections." Leah firmly believes that acupuncture, nutrition, physical therapy, hypnosis, and counseling can all be extremely useful in reducing pain and improving function in a chronic pain patient, and with minimal side effects. "I often see myself as much a 'treatment choreographer' as a pure clinician."

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe pain is best managed by using a comprehensive multi-modality approach. It only stands to reason that complex problems usually require complex solutions. It is not just about the injections or blocks or implants or medication. In order to obtain lasting relief and long-term restoration of function, it is best to take a holistic approach utilizing both traditional and alternative treatment strategies as appropriate, and often simultaneously."

Treatment Philosophy

John believes that everyone has the right "to tell their story," to have their pain recognized, diagnosed, and specifically treated. "It is important for these folks to understand that there are dedicated professionals here at PainCare who will work with them in a variety of ways to obtain relief from their persistent pain and the often terrible impact of their symptoms." John's self-described style with patients is "informal." "Putting up walls between patient and provider is clearly unproductive in this field."

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe chronic pain is your body's method of signaling that something needs to change in your life. Pain management includes developing the skill to alter the perception, interpretation, and response to pain. This can occur on many planes: physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual. I view my role as providing an avenue of relief for my patients - an avenue that is both circular and self-perpetuating, and one that must be fully embraced by the patient. The ultimate goal is independence, restored function, and, of course, decreased pain and suffering."

Psychotherapist

Treatment Philosophy:

Patricia Myers believes that learning about ourselves is ongoing.  "I've worked to understand others and myself throughout my career and I'm comfortable working with people from all walks of life.  From experience, I know that each individual has his/her way of living that works."

Treatment Philosophy:

"Chronic pain reaches far beyond the sensation of pain. It affects the whole person…physically, mentally, and socially. Pain sufferers should know that we at PainCare we use a combination of therapies that address the complexities of the chronic pain experience."

Treatment Philosophy:

"My work philosophy is adopted from a prior medical practice: We listen, we care, we take the time. I try to bring these traits into every interaction with my patients. The investment of my time and good listening skills helps to demystify the complicated medical issues facing each individual." Rick is determined to meet the challenge of helping people understand their problems and simplify their path to relief. He feels strongly that one cannot treat the body separately from the mind. "I believe it is imperative for my patients to work toward improving their mental health as much as physical health while practicing daily preventive care and maintenance."

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe in applying as much science as possible to specifically diagnose the pain generator. It's like being a detective - examining the clues gathered from the patient history, the physical exam, and from x-rays, MRI's and lab data. It also involves giving the patient tools to measure their pain and accurately follow their progress." Of course, the science of pain management must be combined with compassion and sensitivity for the patient's unique pain experience. "One thing I have learned as a practitioner is that pain does not necessarily follow all the rules. Despite optimal detective work and treatment choices, the outcome may be compromised by peripheral issues, such as previously undiagnosed depression. To be successful, we must be ready to help in any way necessary, and to secure his/her active participation in the process."

Treatment Philosophy

"I believe in treating my patients as equals. By teaching them about their conditions and diseases, I give my patients the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their health care choices." With a deep respect for each patient's unique circumstances, Steve develops an individualized treatment plan addressing each and every body system affected by their pain. "I use state-of-the-art technology and scientifically-based, evidence-driven approaches that include medications, procedures, and various therapies."

Treatment Philosophy

"Pain management can be most effective if the patient is motivated to be 'part of the team.' I see my role as finding a way to work with each patient to discover their unique motivators. Once on board, we can work together and find a way to help treat their pain."