Success Stories

We take patient privacy seriously; consequently, we never publish any information about our patients without their permission. However, several patients want to share their Asclepius success stories to help other chronic pain patients realize there is hope for a fulfilling functional life again.

Patient with a severe back and knee injury

I truly believe I would not be where I am today if I wasn’t referred to Asclepius Pain Management. I am so grateful I met Dr. Conard because he helped me gain control of my life and find happiness again. Here’s my story:

I worked as a Registered Nurse in and emergency room and injured my back trying to restrain a combative patient. The day after the incident, I felt fine and worked my usual shift. When I woke up the following day, I could not move. My back felt as though I had been beaten with a baseball bat. I saw an Occupational Health Doctor before I could return to work and was several prescribed different medications. After numerous doctor’s visits, there was no definitive diagnosis and no relief. The doctor recommended getting a back brace for support and I was advised to do some interventional procedures.

I experienced some mild relief from the procedures and although the medications helped, they made me sleepy, depressed and sick. I was eventually referred to Dr. Conard for an Epidural Steroid Injection, which I later realized was the turning point in my recovery. I was extremely lucky to meet Dr. Conard; it was as if an angel walked into my life. He understood the physical and emotional pain I was going through. He spoke with me about the programs he offered at his practice and asked me if I was interested. I was thrilled; maybe now I would get the help I needed!

I soon started one of the programs and Within the first five weeks I lost 22 pounds, gained more energy, and became positive about my future. Before seeing Dr. Conard, I was told I would never return to nursing, which devastated me because becoming a nurse was something I worked very hard to do and for which I have a huge passion. To pay for nursing school, I worked five jobs while taking classes. I was adamant that somehow I would return to my position in the emergency room. I was not giving it up.

Five weeks into the program, I was told I required knee surgery. After the surgery, I was on crutches for six weeks and my back pain worsened. My knee healed after another four months. Unfortunately, I was told I my other knee needed surgery, but I opted not to do it. I was very depressed and in excruciating pain; however, I couldn’t imagine going back on crutches for five to six more weeks. I had to regain my life no matter what it took! I told my doctors I was done waiting for treatments. I wanted to return to the program I was in and start working again.

I started the Functional Restoration Program again and worked extremely hard. Yes, I had pain. Yes, the program was difficult but I knew it was essential in order for me to take my life back. Sure, there were days that I wanted to give up, but I knew if I gave up my physical and emotional condition would worsen. Shortly after my second attempt in the program, I started working part time. After completing the Functional Restoration Program I went back to work full time as a Registered Nurse and began exercising at least three times a week. I was back on the path to my life before my injury.

I am a happy person again. It was extremely hard work, but worth the effort it took to move forward. When people now ask me if I have pain, the answer is yes, but I now have the skills and tools to manage it. This is the life I have been given, I don’t have regrets or anger and am happy for what and who I have in my life.  I live in the moment with graciousness, appreciation, and love and enjoy helping others take back their lives as I did.