Creating an environment where adults and teens feel comfortable, relaxed and informed is a crucial component to my practice. I spend a lot of time educating my patients about their specific condition and answering their questions about treatment options. I believe it is important to build a partnership with my patients because it builds trust and creates an open channel of communication; two things that are so important when dealing with some of the difficulties that accompany spine conditions.
Sometimes, the cure for a given condition follows a straightforward process of matching a particular problem with the right treatment, which may be surgery. But more often than not, it is not. It's a process of trial and error, where I explore the least invasive options first.
While there are conditions for which surgery is appropriate and necessary, there are also conditions that don't respond as well to surgery. I've seen alternative treatments—from exercise to physical therapy to anti-inflammatory medications—work well enough to cure many people. Finding the least involved and safest treatment option is always foremost in my mind.
I place great emphasis on spending one-on-one time with my patients to help me better understand what their needs and goals are. I've run thirteen marathons and chase after three kids at home, so I really get it when someone comes to me and says, "I just want to get back to my life." Focusing on the needs of my patients and finding the most effective treatment for their condition is my life's work and I am privileged to be in the position to help people find that solution.
