Chronic pain syndrome is defined as a complex condition that involves multiple causative and perpetuating factors lasting at least six months. Chronic pain can be debilitating, interfering with every aspect of daily life. Each individual's response to chronic pain is influenced by a combination of physiological, psychological, physical, social, cultural and economic factors.

The philosophy of the Pain Management Program at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute (JRI) in central New Jersey is to utilize an intensive interdisciplinary team treatment approach to address all of these factors.

JRI's program is designed to maximize a patient's functional capacity. Treatment at our NJ facilities is focused on providing each patient with the necessary tools to independently manage his or her symptoms and regain control of his or her life. Emphasis is placed on the patient's active participation in identifying and meeting goals and the carryover of newly learned skills into daily activities.

Each patient receives individualized occupational and physical therapy based upon needs identified during the evaluation process. Patients are educated in proper body mechanics and work simplification in order to increase endurance for specific tasks. Emphasis is also placed on educating patients to manage their own pain. Decreases in pain may be achieved through improved fitness, flexibility, endurance and the identification of pain triggers and the subsequent modification of activities to avoid increased symptoms.

One of our highly trained psychologists works with each patient individually once a week. Utilizing a cognitive behavioral framework, treatment focuses on teaching patients to live fuller lives with increased understanding of their pain and the application of tools to help control and manage their own pain.

Vocational services may be provided when appropriate in order to develop realistic vocational/educational plans.

A board-certified, fellowship-trained physician is also available for various interventional procedures, including:  

• Cervical, thoracic, lumbar epidural injections
• Cervical, thoracic, lumbar provocative discography
• Cervical, thoracic, lumbar percutaneous disc decompression
• Cervical, thoracic, lumbar facet blocks
• Radiofrequency ablation

JRI also offers interventional and pharmacological cancer pain treatment; intrathecal pump trial and placement; spinal cord stimulator trial and placement; and verteberoplasty to repair compression fractures. Treatment is also available for back and neck pain, cancer pain, RSD, sciatica, diabetic neuropathy, headaches, failed back surgery syndrome, and more.

A JRI physiatrist serves as the program's physician, providing medical management and team direction to coordinate the multiple services detailed above. The physiatrist also manages pain medications as appropriate and makes referrals as needed.  All other physician services, such as psychiatry and anesthesiology, are available on a consultative basis.

For additional information about JRI's Pain Management Program in NJ, please call 732-321-7707.