Additionally, the center has two programs for doctors in their second or third years of residency, with 36 participating each year. Most of the participants are anesthesiologists, as are Irving and Gallagher. But for most anesthesiologists, their patients are asleep during most of the time they spend with them. I find treating chronic pain is more challenging and rewarding because I interact with the patients in a clinical setting and get to know them, get to see them improve. The improvements can be dramatic.
Patients come to the center in a multitude of conditions.
Some have kept their aching arm or leg immobile so long that they can no longer move it. While some are optimistic, as is Arias, others have lost all self-esteem, may be wondering if it's all in their head or are suicidal. Like Hughes, many haven't worked for years. And occasionally, there are individuals who have histories of abuse which are contributing to their pain. But variations of psychological conditioning may be the most helpful.