Do I need a referral for pain management?
Some insurance plans do not require a referral to schedule an appointment at our clinic. However, TriWest and Alaska Medicaid do require a referral before scheduling. If you’re unsure, our team can help verify your insurance requirements.
What conditions do you treat?
We diagnose and treat a wide range of pain conditions affecting the body from head to toe, including:
- Chronic migraines and headaches
- Back, joint, and musculoskeletal pain
- Nerve pain and radiculopathy
- Fibromyalgia and complex pain syndromes
- Long COVID-related pain
- Connective tissue disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
Our team specializes in comprehensive evaluations to identify the root cause of pain and develop personalized treatment plans.
What should I expect on my first visit?
At your first visit:
- You will complete intake paperwork and review your insurance benefits at check-in
- A medical assistant will collect your vitals and medical history
- You will spend approximately 30–60 minutes with your provider
Your provider will:
- Review your medical history and prior imaging/tests
- Perform a comprehensive evaluation
- Develop a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan
If a procedure is recommended, we will obtain any required insurance authorization and contact you to schedule once approved.
Do you accept insurance or self-pay?
We are in-network with:
- Aetna
- Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Alaska Medicaid
- TriWest (Tricare West & VA)
We are an opt-out provider for Medicare and cannot bill Medicare directly. For most out-of-network plans, we can submit claims on your behalf, but we recommend confirming your benefits with your insurance provider.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling or texting our office at 907-677-7246. Our team will help you find the next available appointment and guide you through any required steps.
Do you prescribe medication or focus on procedures?
We take a personalized, patient-centered approach to pain management. Treatment may include:
- Interventional procedures
- Therapies and lifestyle modifications
- Safe, conservative medication management when appropriate
Our goal is to treat the underlying source of pain, not just symptoms.
What treatments do you offer?
We offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient, including:
- Medication management
- Minimally invasive interventional procedures
- Regenerative therapies
We can also coordinate referrals for:
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic care
Our focus is improving function and quality of life through a customized care plan.
Additional Patient Questions
What can I do for muscle soreness or pain after exercise?
Muscle pain after activity may be due to strain, overuse, or conditions like shin splints. We recommend:
- Proper footwear and avoiding hard running surfaces
- Gradual training progression
- Physical therapy or gait analysis if pain persists
Should I use heat or ice for pain?
- Ice is best for acute injuries (sprains, inflammation)
- Heat is helpful for chronic muscle tension and stiffness
Magnesium supplementation and Epsom salt baths can also help relax muscles.
Can pain medications be addictive?
Some medications, particularly opioids and benzodiazepines, can be habit-forming. Most other pain medications are not addictive when used appropriately under medical supervision.
Are steroids commonly used for pain?
Steroids are used selectively. While they can be helpful in certain conditions (like nerve inflammation or sacroiliac joint pain), we aim to minimize their use when possible.
What can I do for chronic or widespread body pain?
Helpful strategies include:
- Regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, yoga)
- Strengthening and posture improvement
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
For conditions like fibromyalgia, medications and structured exercise programs may also be recommended.
When should I seek urgent care for pain?
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain (possible appendicitis or organ-related issues)
- Sudden or severe headaches with unusual symptoms
- Signs of serious injury or complications
Some pain may originate from other systems and require evaluation by a primary care or emergency provider.
What causes chronic back pain?
Back pain can have many causes, including:
- Disc issues
- Facet joint pain
- Nerve compression
- Muscle strain
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
A thorough evaluation and imaging review help identify the exact cause and guide treatment.
Are there natural ways to manage pain?
Yes, many patients benefit from:
- Heat therapy and Epsom salt baths
- Magnesium supplementation
- Exercise (yoga, pilates, strength training)
- Stress reduction techniques (meditation, breathing exercises)
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