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says. “Only by carefully assessing each person’s situation — their
medical history, lifestyle and goals — can we identify treatments
geared to their specific needs.” This assessment helps identify:
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SLEEP DISORDERS.
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DEPRESSION.
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THE PATIENT’S CURRENT QUALITY OF CARE.
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WHICH TREATMENTS MIGHT BE BENEFICIAL.
“Our pain specialists discuss the whole range of factors that could
be affecting the patient’s chronic pain,” Dr. Azari says. “That means
we talk to patients about everything from nutrition and physical
movement to medication and community resources.” A medical
provider — either a physician, nurse practitioner or physician
assistant — reviews each patient’s assessment to determine what
exercise, medication and physical therapy can help.
With this understanding of each patient’s functional capacity,
including how strength, flexibility and balance affect everyday
activities, the Live Well staff helps patients set exercise goals to
improve mobility. “They monitor the patients during exercise,
always with the goal of reducing pain and enhancing quality of life,”
Dr. Azari says.
Because the staff approaches pain management with a sense of
fun, patients might find themselves playing Wii™ fitness games,
among other activities. Social organization networks and church
activities can help patients on their spiritual paths. And that can give
them access to healthy social contact, including
support groups.
Find the right options for you
Dr. Azari thinks many people just accept
their pain because they don’t realize what
can be done. Helping each patient find the
right options — the ones that lead to relief
and the ability to function again — can
dramatically improve their quality of life.
“
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Pari Azari, MD, Physical Medicine
and Rehabilitation
To learn more about the unique approach of the
Live Well Program in Clearlake, call 707.995.4545.
Live Well is unique
in that it integrates
physical, dietary,
psychological and
spiritual elements to
help patients find
relief from pain.
