Bio
What are your specialties and certifications?
Dual board certified in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Management.
Why did you go into medicine? Why did you choose your particular field?
For years I have watched my mother struggle with fibromyalgia and chronic
pain. Her struggle with pain was a primary motivating force to become
a pain practitioner. I also enjoy providing anesthesia for surgical patients,
but with chronic pain management I have the opportunity to develop lasting
relationships with patients.
What are some of your clinical interests?
Multimodal approach to pain management - I believe that pain is a multidimensional
and very personal experience. As such, the management of pain should be
approached from multiple avenues. Fluoroscopic and Ultrasound-guided interventional
techniques.
What do you love about practicing medicine?
Everyday I get to make a difference in someone's life. Sometimes, it
may be performing a much-needed procedure to reduce pain and increase
functionality. Other times, it may be listening attentively to someone's
long-time struggle with chronic pain. Whatever the case may be, everyday
I wake up excited that I get to play a small part in someone else's
journey towards health and wellness.
"Because of the lessons my patients have taught me I hope that I see
people with greater love in my heart and compassion in my mind."
What is your philosophy of care?
Care begins with being heard and is sustained through clinical competence.
Everyone deserves a provider possessing a listening, empathetic ear, as
well as a skilled mind and hands.
What do you most want people to know about the way you practice medicine?
My patients are my priority. In other words, I am here first and foremost,
for my patients - to serve them to the best of my ability.
What can your patients expect during an appointment?
Initial appointments will involve a detailed exam specific to your pain.
We will cover all aspects of your medical history that may be contributing
to your symptoms. At the completion of our visit we will decide together
upon an appropriate plan of care.
What do you wish you could tell every patient (and they would actually
do) and why?
Stick to the plan that we agree upon. If you have chronic, long-standing
pain, don't expect it to get better overnight. If you stick to the
plan, you will see positive results. There is hope.
What have your patients taught you?
I have found that I am more blessed by my patients than I think they are
by me. I am fortunate to be in a position to help alleviate pain, but
I have found that my patients have as great of an impact on me as I hopefully
have on them. My patients have helped me to see people differently. Everyone
has a story. Everyone has pain. No one is immune to the challenges and
difficulties of life. Because of the lessons my patients have taught me
I hope that I see people with greater love in my heart and compassion
in my mind.
Who is someone you admire, and why?
My wife, Jennie. She has taught me the meaning of the word Grace.
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Dayton, Ohio and moved to Alabama when I was eleven.
What brought you to the Bitterroot Valley?
The beautiful Bitterroots and the opportunity to serve the surrounding
communities.
"I love being a small part of people lives - knowing that I am making
a difference. Having lived in Atlanta and Orlando, I really appreciate
small town living."
What do you enjoy about living and working in a small community like ours?
I see my patients in the grocery store... and everywhere else. I love being
a small part of people's lives - knowing that I am making a difference.
Having lived in Atlanta and Orlando, I really appreciate small town living.
Living in such a close-knit community, how do you create a successful work–life balance?
My family plays and prays together a lot. Two very important aspects of
a health life balance.
What are some of your non-professional interests and favorite hobbies?
I love a good book, a long hike, a tuned guitar and my children's laughter.
Is there anything about you that might surprise people?
I am a practitioner of Jiu Jitsu.
What would be your personal motto?
I am my creator's child, so I live like it.
Do you have pets?