“I had been in significant pain over the last five years. I was to the point where I was asking Valium and OxyContin, which made me feel miserable. I was unable to function because of the side effects. I was unable to perform my job 100% of the time and my daily activity level was down to nothing by the time I came to IPPMC. Previous to coming to IPPMC, I received physical therapy and traction, in which I actually aggravated my symptoms and ended up in the emergency room. Because nothing was controlling my pain and I was on highly-dosed opioids, my primary care referred me to Dr. Kowalkowski. After receiving interventional treatments, as well as some therapies, I have been able to live how I want to live. I have been able to canoe, camp and take vacations for the first time in four years. I am also relieved to pain free.”