Tom Mayer, M.D. is Board certified in Orthopedic Surgery and is currently a Clinical Professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Dr. Mayer is known in the medical community for his extensive research on chronic musculoskeletal conditions and rehabilitation. He is the former President of the North American Spine Society (1999) and the founding editor of The Spine Journal. He has co-authored many books and scientific articles and is on the Editorial Review Board of multiple journals. His innovations include the concept of Functional Restoration, new techniques in measurement of physical and psychological function (especially for spinal disorders), and the development of techniques for evaluation of permanent impairment. He continues to develop and serve on Review Boards for evidence based treatment guidelines, particularly on coordination of services for sub-acute and chronic musculoskeletal disorders.

As licensed independent practitioners, nurse practitioners practice autonomously and in collaboration with other health care professionals to assess, diagnose, treat and manage the patient’s health problems/needs. As partners in health with patients, Nurse Practitioners take on roles of health provider, mentor, educator, clinical researcher, and administrator.

Janice Imming-Rogers, MS, RN, CS

PRIDE’s Occupational Therapists (OT) are experts in helping individuals with chronic pain and disabilities to return to functional activities of daily living and to resume a more productive life. PRIDE OTs help individuals overcome physical obstacles by building strength, endurance, and coordination. Our OTs stay current in their field and provide creative, evidence-based, exercise routines to help reach each individual’s goals. Functional simulations of real-life activities are provided, which promote optimal results for those who are limited with home chores, work duties, and/or leisure pursuits. Education is provided on activity modification, energy conservation, and pain management techniques. As experts in Functional Capacity Evaluations, our OT staff has assisted with chapters published in the “Guide to the Evaluation of Functional Ability” and they continue to support research in this area.

The Case Management Department provides assistance with case issues and vocational planning. Case managers are the primary point of contact with patients while in the PRIDE treatment program. They help educate patients about workers’ compensation law, relevant case-related paperwork, how Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and Medical Impairment Ratings are determined, and how to file disputes when necessary. Case managers set up treatment schedules, arrange for transportation and hotel stays as needing, help patients overcome barriers to treatment participation, and assist with future planning, including employment goals. They communicate with doctors, insurance carriers, employers, attorneys, rehabilitation nurses, and vocational rehab counselors, to resolve case issues and maximize successful treatment outcomes.

Behavioral Medicine integrates biological, behavioral, psychological, and social sciences within a biopsychosocial treatment model. Mental health professionals, who specialize in chronic pain rehabilitation, are available to provide support, teach effective coping strategies for managing pain and emotional stress, and educate patients about the relationship between their thoughts, mood, behaviors, and pain experience. Specific techniques to help patients cope with chronic pain include supportive counseling, individual and class room education, and skill building in areas such as relaxation, mindfulness, stress management, problem solving, goal setting, sleep strategies, and assertive communication.