Pain Management

At A Better Tomorrow, every client is seen as an individual with unique needs. That’s why we offer a unique Pain Management Program in addition to our traditional rehabilitation program, that addresses clients addicted to medication due to chronic or persistent pain.

Pain and addiction both present their own set of complicated problems. When pain disorders and addiction disorders co-occur, the problems more than multiply and they require a special approach to treatment. Clients in need of specialized treatment to address both pain and chemical dependency are offered additional enrollment in our Pain Management Program.

In addition to the existing chemical dependency program, the Pain Management Program provides each individual with:

  • Multiple pain group therapy sessions per week. Topics include: neurophysiology of pain; mind/body connection; breathing and relaxation; posture and body mechanics; exercise; diet and nutrition; body acceptance; and relapse prevention.
  • Multiple individual treatment sessions per week provided by a licensed physical therapist and/or massage therapist.

The emphasis of this program is on developing an aftercare plan for managing pain in the future without narcotic pain medication. Other goals include (but not limited to):

  • Improved function and renewed enjoyment in recreational activities
  • Reduced future health-care expense
  • Facilitate a reduction in relapse rates
  • Increase ability to manage pain through self-care such as exercise, activity pacing, heat, ice, diet, etc.
  • Independence and ability to perform relaxation techniques
  • Proper exercise principles and techniques

Jim has been a licensed physical therapist for over 20 years. Graduating with honors from the prestigious Loma Linda University, Jim has extensive experience in treating chronic pain patients with diagnosis such as tempomandibular joint pain (TMJ), headaches, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain and chronic neck and back pain. Jim has completed multiple continuing education courses specifically designed towards treating chronic pain. Jim has been an active member of the American Academy of Pain Management since 1995 and has several articles in print.

In an effort to better treat the “whole” person Jim obtained a Master of Science degree in marriage and family therapy, graduating with honors from the University of La Verne in Southern California. Jim has over two years experience counseling individuals and families dealing with chemical dependency issues. This unique combination of education and experience sets the pain program at ABTTC apart from all others. Jim is able to bring the different “languages” from counseling and medicine together in a coordinated treatment approach.

Additional Staff

Marcy Trutalli, M.P.T., C.S.C.S.

Marcy graduated from Western University of Health Science with a Masters degree in physical therapy. Marcy has written a research proposal for “Tai Chi: An exercise intervention for improving balance in sedentary and active elderly”. Prior to her master’s program Marcy obtain a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from San Diego State University. Additionally, Marcy is nationally licensed as Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She has been an active member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2001. Marcy has six years of experience working in an outpatient orthopedic clinic setting as well as acute care hospital experience.

Liz Crisostomo, LMT, CR, Reiki Master

Licensed massage therapist for 6 years practicing, deep tissue, energy, swedish and hot stone therapy. Certified reflexologist and Reike Master, Certified spiritual counselor. Blending the body, mind, and spirit.

Learn more about our Pain Management Program by calling us anytime or using the form below to submit a confidential inquiry.

Additional Treatment Information

Toll Free Telephone Number
(800) 481-0087

24/7 Live Chat Support (Online)

Confidential Inquiry
Use the form below to submit a confidential message to our admissions team.