I have been seeing Doctor Stinson and his staff at...

I have been seeing Doctor Stinson and his staff at Advanced Pain Centers of Alaska for the last 12 years, and consider him a lifesaver! Too many surgeons don't refer patients to a pain management specialist when they feel there is nothing more they can do surgically, leaving people struggling with chronic pain.

I shattered L2 in an accident (which by all rights should have left me paralyzed) and had to have L1-L3 fused. Surgery revealed I had osteoporosis in my spine, and my vertebrae didn't hold the screws properly. A significant curve developed, which has progressively compressed the disks below the fusion. Through years of different types of injections, the eventual addition of a spinal cord stimulator, the judicious use of pain meds - and just plain personal attention - Dr. Stinson has helped me retain a much higher activity level than surgery or PT alone would have left me with.

What I value just as much is being treated as an individual. Everyone in the office, from Dr. Stinson to the front receptionist, have consistently been friendly, welcoming and respectful. I have recommended him many times to people struggling with chronic pain, who are unaware of life-enhancing pain management options.

In all fairness, I should add that I have been deeply fortunate to have excellent health insurance. And that too has made a huge difference. I don't know where I'd be if I had to pay out of pocket for the great care I have received.