VietNam Veteran Finds Relief From Constant Pain Thanks To Alliance

Alliance Spine and Pain Centers provides life-changing pain relief. Our best-in-class physicians help our patients live fuller, more functional, and fulfilling lives.

If you’re dealing with chronic pain, we want you to know that you’re not alone. Our patient success series is intended to share incredible and inspiring stories of our patients overcoming pain. Keep reading to learn about Fred Riddell’s journey with pain management with Alliance Spine and Pain Centers.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO ALLIANCE SPINE AND PAIN CENTERS?

Despite many incidents of back pain throughout my life, I always recovered or was able to “work through it.” I started experiencing pain in my early days of playing football as a youth and it continued with nerve damage from injuries suffered in Vietnam while serving in the military.

I did not let back pain deter me and was still doing all the physical activity I had always done until the age of 65. Then, the pain became unbearable. A hip replacement relieved pain in my right side, but I still had back pain that radiated to my legs. Gabapentin and physical therapy kept that pain under control for several years. However, the pain intensified and I was referred to Alliance in February 2019.

Immediately, my Alliance physician treated me with epidurals and ablations, which provided temporary relief. When they didn’t provide lasting relief, my doctor recommended a Spinal Cord Stimulator trial with the Nevro HF10 in October 2019, followed by an implant two months later. That procedure made me feel normal again!

TELL US ABOUT THE ALLIANCE PHYSICIAN YOU WORKED WITH

I clicked with my physician right away. She’s wonderful and deserves all the accolades. Not only does she really care, my doctor provides state-of-the-art care.

HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH ALLIANCE SPINE AND PAIN CENTERS?

The Alliance team is optimistic and shows great appreciation for the patient. Alliance nurse practitioner, Emily Cummins guided me through the process incredibly. I also appreciated the session with Dr. Andrea Elkon, Alliance’s psychologist who made sure I was qualified for the procedure.

Everyone at Alliance treats my wife and me wonderfully. I have zero negative things to say about the practice. 

WHAT LESSON DO YOU WANT THOSE READING YOUR STORY TO LEARN?

If you are open in your communications about the pain you’re experiencing, you will get great results from this team. 

HOW ARE YOU DOING NOW?

After the Spinal Cord Stimulator trial with the Nevro HF10, I got immediate relief that has continued to this day. This status surpassed my goal of at least 50% relief. I’ve also been able to stop wearing the back brace that was my constant companion for two years before it.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF

I am happily married with three children, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Since I no longer have pain, I’ve taken up golf again. I also volunteer weekly at the Georgia Department of Veterans Service.

If you or a loved one are having issues with pain management, the experts at Alliance Spine and Pain are here to help you get back to what you love. Give us a call at 770-929-9033 or click here to schedule an appointment.