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I was drawn to medicine because I am passionate about science and working with people. In college, I took neuroscience classes and was intrigued by the nervous system. During my medical training, I discovered that neurosurgery is gratifying because it allows doctors to restore a person’s ability to function. I decided to become a neurosurgeon so I could help alleviate patients’ pain and improve their quality of life.

I treat people who have Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, multiple sclerosis, low back and neck pain, migraine headaches, and other types of chronic pain. I have expertise in neuromodulation therapy, which involves implanting a device to control excessive movement or pain. I perform deep brain stimulation, in which implanted electrodes deliver electrical impulses to the brain to help control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor.

I also implant devices such as spinal cord stimulators to control back pain. I use a device that stimulates the dorsal root ganglion, a group of spinal nerves, to relieve pain in the lower extremities. For patients with pain related to cancer, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or a spinal cord injury, I can implant an intrathecal pump in the spine. I also perform spinal fusion, lumbar laminectomy, and spinal disc replacement to relieve low back and leg pain.

Because patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach to care, I work closely with pain management specialists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to create comprehensive treatment plans. My colleagues and I communicate regularly to ensure patients receive the highest-quality care. It is rewarding to help people return to their jobs and favorite activities.

In addition to caring for patients, I participate in research. I have published more than 50 peer-reviewed studies on neuromodulation therapy. I am currently studying treatments for chronic pain and complex regional pain syndrome. During my fellowship, I received the Ronald Tasker Award for a study I conducted on neuromodulation therapy for craniofacial pain. I have also received several teaching awards.