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  • Peter Bracke

    < Back Peter Bracke Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Steven Hanling

    < Back Steven Hanling Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Jose De La Torre

    < Back Jose De La Torre Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Poster Abstract 2024 | ACMCRN

    2nd European Congress on Neurology & Neuropsychiatry, London, UK, February 19-20 2024 For the best viewing experience, we recommend accessing this page on a desktop or laptop computer. While it is accessible on mobile devices, the layout and features are optimized for larger screens. Click the photo to englarge. For more information or inquiries, please contact: Lori Verton - President, ACMCRN Email: verton@acmcrn.org | Phone: +1 226-582-7546

  • Steven Andrus

    < Back Steven Andrus Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Ketan Patel

    < Back Ketan Patel Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Rano M Faltas

    < Back Rano M Faltas Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Emmalyn Freeze | ACMCRN

    Emmalyn's Journey Emmalyn's journey began at age three with a diagnosis of Chiari Malformation and syringomyelia, leading to a Chiari Decompression surgery aimed at draining fluid-filled cavities in her spine. Unfortunately, the surgery wasn't successful, propelling her into a series of medical procedures and surgeries. The ordeal started with chemical meningitis, followed by a diagnosis of occult tethered cord in 2013, necessitating the first of four detethering surgeries. ​ Over the next two yea rs, Emmalyn continued to suffer from headaches and leg pain, culminating in her third and final decompression surgery in November 2015. This surgery initially seemed successful until December, when a squishy bump was discovered on the back of her head, leading to a diagnosis of pseudomeningocele. This marked the beginning of a downward spiral due to damage to her dura, the lining of her spinal cord, triggering a series of devastating health issues. ​ Since her first surgery in July 2012, Emmalyn has endured three Chiari Decompression surgeries, a plate in her head for Craniocervical Instability (CCI) caused by a previous surgery, spinal fusion throughout her cervical region, hardware removal, numerous infections, shunts, 6 CT Myelograms, a Cisternogram, several lumbar punctures, multiple MRIs, blood patches, a fibrin patch, ICP bolts, anti-siphoning devices, EVD drains, and various spinal fluid leaks. Her diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome necessitated dural patches with muscle flaps and tissue harvesting. This is not an exhaustive list of her medical procedures. Currently, Emmalyn lives with four shunts, experiences intense spinal pressure issues, and suffers from severe scar tissue in her spine. She endures constant, severe lower back and head pain and has limited use of her left leg due to a developed tremor, necessitating the use of a cane. Adding to her challenges, Emmalyn was diagnosed on November 15, 2021, with Adhesive Arachnoiditis by a neurosurgeon in Rhode Island. The diagnosis revealed serious cauda tethering, a syrinx, and extensive scarring. An arachnoid cyst in her lumbar area was also identified, likely contributing to her debilitating left leg tremor. ​ In early 2023, Emmalyn's leg pain worsened, leading us from Chicago to California for a specialized MRI and consultation with Dr. Tennant, an adhesive arachnoiditis specialist. The MRI revealed a significant growth in her cyst, necessitating fenestration. This discovery prompted another trip, this time to Durham on March 5th. On March 9, 2023, Emmalyn underwent a six-hour surgery to fenestrate the cyst, install a shunt, and detether her lumbar spinal cord, hoping to alleviate her leg pain. While this surgery reduced her lower back pain, she continued to suffer from positional headaches and vomiting. ​ An infection on April 6th prolonged our stay, and we didn't return home until April 13th, turning a planned two-week trip into a 37-day ordeal. Emmalyn's health challenges persisted, necessitating return visits to Durham for further consultations and treatments. Her hematologist referred her to Immunology, and Neurosurgery aimed to address her severe head and neck pain. ​ On May 22nd, the need arose to reset Emmalyn's shunt due to increasing pain. After numerous attempts to adjust the shunt, Dr. Grant consulted with the shunt manufacturers for a solution. Plans for further trips to Rhode Island and North Carolina were made for comprehensive MRI scans and EDS pain management. ​ Despite these efforts, Emmalyn's condition did not improve. A risky surgery was scheduled for June 13th, aiming to address tethering and cerebrospinal fluid blockage. The six-hour surgery led to an extended stay in North Carolina. ​ On August 10th, a lumbar puncture was conducted to investigate Emmalyn's persistent head pain. Unfortunately, this procedure did not provide the desired outcomes, leading to a MR Myelogram that revealed a significant spinal fluid leak. WThe decision was made to do a nuclear med study of her shunt to make sure all was working well. After the test results came back it showed that her vp shunt was not working properly and had to be revised. At this point her neurosurgeon decided to change her valve of her vp shunt back to the strata valve. Emmalyn went back into surgery for a VP shunt revision on August 17th. After a 2 ½ surgery they came out and all went well. After 5 days in the hospital she was released to the hotel. Emmalyn’s positional pain of being upright versus laying down was getting worse. More MRI imaging was done every few days to keep eyes on things. On September 1st Emmalyn woke up with a large bulge in the back of her head and after emailing with her neurosurgeon who thank god was on call the decision was made to go to the ER. After imaging was done it was determined she had a large pseudomeningocele at her craniectomy site. She was immediately admitted to the hospital and her neurosurgery team was paged. We were told that Emmalyn would be going into surgery #3 within the last 2 months the next day. Emmalyn went in for a craniectomy on September 2nd. She had a visible leak at the corner of the dural patch. After 4 ½ hour surgery it was repaired and Emmalyn would remain in the hospital for 10 days to recover. She was released and after shunt adjustments, follow up MRI’s and appointments Emmalyn was free to return home on October 15th, but still in her baseline of 10/10 head pain and now her back pain has returned at 8/10. ​ Throughout her challenging journey, Emmalyn and her family have traveled extensively, seeking answers and treatments. Their journey has included flights and long car trips, accompanied by significant expenses for accommodation, meals, and other necessities. The financial burden has been overwhelming, reliant on the generosity of friends and family. ​ In total, Emmalyn has undergone 54 surgeries on her brain and spinal cord. Recognizing the incurability of many of her disorders, Emmalyn's mother, Stephanie, has dedicated herself to advocating for research and multiple medical opinions. She offers support and advice to other parents navigating similar battles, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in these difficult journeys. Currently, her family is exploring non-surgical methods to manage her pain, focusing on less invasive treatments. They have enrolled her in Dr. Pascal’s Health Institute, which involves significant costs for the treatment, food, and lodging, amounting to over $50,000—expenses not covered by insurance. Given the urgent need to find alternative treatment options outside of surgeries—which are no longer an option—they raised $30,000 to enroll her in the program and to secure housing for her family. They have decided to continue fundraising the remaining $20,000. So far, Emmalyn is seeing progress but is in danger of having to stop the program unless the remaining funds are raised soon. To find out how to donate and to learn more about Emmalyn's Journey, please visit her website at: Emmalyns-Journey.com or click on the "Donate Now" button below. DONATE NOW

  • Katie R Rosell

    < Back Katie R Rosell Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Peter Liepmann

    < Back Peter Liepmann Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • OUR STORY | ACMCRN

    Our History: In the typical fashion of rare disease sufferers helping each other, our story originates with the actions of yet another rare disease warrior. With over 8000 known Rare Diseases, as a group, Rare Disease patients are not really alone; 400 million worldwide have a rare disease; together we are a force! The day that ACMCRN was conceived, Lori Verton was listening to an interesting interview with a woman who was using her comedy acts to raise money for her rare disease called "LAM ." The story told the tale of Catherine Lawrence, a Rare Disease sufferer, who had partnered with local research professionals to fundraise for their directed studies in LAM. I contacted the physician researcher listed in the article, a Dr Bill Stanford who was so very accommodating. He helped connect me with the proper resources and network, and from that point on, our collaborative research network was born. It took a couple of years using the fantastic resources offered by the Rare Disease community to educate ourselves enough in the process including; NORD, CORD, Eurordis, Beacon (findacure.uk.org) and others. Soon our small Governance Board was born, with Lori Verton, Dr Terri Lewis PhD, and well known community elder, Louise Carbonneau Vermeiren as Secretary/Treasurer, Dr Lewis as VP Research and Lori Verton as President. In 2022 the non-profit had grown busy enough that two new Directors would need to be added. We were pleased to add Eve Blackburn to the Board in Feb 2022, as VP Patient Engagement. We are in the process of adding one more Director to our Governance Team. Our Evolution: In the initial stages, our focus was on cultivating a strong online presence and fostering connections within the Arachnoiditis community. Through dedicated efforts, we've seen our social media following flourish, alongside the creation and dissemination of educational resources for both patients and physicians. Our community, which began as a small seed, has now blossomed into a thriving network of nearly 3,000 members – an impressive stride in the realm of rare diseases. ​ Gathering Insights: As we embarked on our journey, our attention turned to the creation of our Patient Centered Outcome Research survey. With the participation of 500 individuals, our first milestone was achieved, yielding valuable insights from interim data. This significant milestone has invigorated our anticipation for future avenues of study. With a participant count of 1250, we stand on the brink of uncovering fresh insights as we prepare to unveil the interim data to the public, accompanied by a forthcoming release of a poster abstract. This remarkable undertaking, including the creation of the poster abstract, stands as the most extensive survey of its nature for Arachnoiditis, serving to magnify the possibilities of groundbreaking discoveries. ​ A Forward-Looking Approach: Our ongoing endeavors encompass enhancing our networking capabilities and seizing opportunities for education and advocacy as they emerge. We remain steadfast in our commitment to staying at the forefront of progress. ​ Our Vision: We envision a future where Arachnoiditis is at the center of a professional community that encompasses patients, healthcare providers, and researchers. This collective effort is directed towards the establishment of evidence-based clinical guidelines, Centers of Excellence, and FDA-approved treatments. Our sights are set on achieving these transformative goals in the times to come. ​ Pioneering Together: At ACMCRN, we take pride in leading the Arachnoiditis community with a collaborative spirit that spans research, education, and advocacy. Our most recent achievement, the inauguration of the world's first International Patient Registry for Arachnoiditis, exemplifies our commitment to driving innovation. This landmark initiative unites patients, professionals, and researchers in a shared mission to propel Arachnoiditis research forward. ​ As we navigate the path ahead, we extend an invitation to all who share our passion for progress and compassion for those affected by Arachnoiditis. Together, we are rewriting the narrative of this condition, moving towards a future enriched by knowledge, care, and hope. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. ​ ​

  • Michael Moon

    < Back Michael Moon Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Dr. Sheldon Jordan

    < Back Dr. Sheldon Jordan Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Jonathan Koning

    < Back Jonathan Koning Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Stephen Gibert

    < Back Stephen Gibert Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • ATIT SHAH

    < Back ATIT SHAH Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Gregory Flynn

    < Back Gregory Flynn Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Joseph David | ACMCRN

    Joseph David's journey with Arachnoiditis began unexpectedly following a failed back surgery in October 2018. Originally seeking relief for a herniated disc in the L5-S1 area, Joseph's condition took a turn for the worse when he developed a rare disease called Adhesive Arachnoiditis (AA) as a result of subsequent treatments, including spinal injections. From that point on, Joseph experienced unimaginable pain and suffering every minute of every day. Throughout his challenging journey, Joseph displayed incredible strength and a positive outlook, driven by his deep love for his family. Despite the impact of Arachnoiditis on their lives, Joseph's spirit and soul radiated love and light, drawing people toward him. His unexpected passing on June 7, 2023, at 11:17 AM has left a void in the hearts of his loved ones, who will forever hold him dear. To honor Joseph's memory and raise awareness about Arachnoiditis, we invite you to consider donating to the cause. While not everyone may be able to contribute financially, spreading awareness about this devastating illness is equally valuable. Arachnoiditis affects countless individuals and families, and by sharing Joseph's story, we can shed light on the urgent need for improved understanding and support. Arachnoiditis is triggered by an insult to the Arachnoid mater, resulting from trauma, infection, or chemical irritation. The body's natural response involves triggering glial cells to aid in healing, but in those susceptible to Arachnoiditis, it leads to neuro-inflammation and the clumping and tethering of nerves, known as Adhesive Arachnoiditis. This condition causes severe pain and poses significant challenges for those affected. By donating in Joseph's memory, you contribute to vital initiatives aimed at raising awareness about Arachnoiditis and providing much-needed support to individuals and caregivers facing its daily hardships. Your donation helps fund research, educational resources, and support programs that empower those affected by this debilitating condition, in particular our Zoom Peer Support program. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Joseph's family for choosing our nonprofit organization as the recipient of donations in his name. Their trust and support mean the world to us, and we are committed to honoring Joseph's legacy by making a lasting impact through our efforts. We sincerely thank you for considering a contribution and for joining us in our mission to improve the lives of individuals and caregivers impacted by Arachnoiditis. Together, we can make a difference and provide much-needed solace, strength, and support to those in need. ​ We invite you to read Joseph's obituary to gain a deeper understanding of his life and the impact he had on those around him. ​ To donate and support our mission, please click on the yellow donate button below. ​ ​ ​ ​

  • Christine White Deeble

    < Back Christine White Deeble Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Page no longer available

    STUFF THAT WORKS Take The Survey! Anyone dealing with an ongoing medical condition such as Arachnoiditis is eager to find the most effective treatment for themselves or a family member. Many dedicate endless hours researching, speaking with peers and scanning groups. We want to know if there are treatments that will work better, if our side effects are unusual, or if changes in diet, lifestyle or vitamins could make a difference. We look for people similar to ourselves and seek to learn what works (and doesn’t) for them. So far there have been almost a thousand Arachnoiditis patients and caregivers who have filled out the StuffThatWorks survey. The insights gathered from this research will help the Arachnoiditis community understand more about our common experiences and work as a Pilot Study to help us understand what our upcoming Research trials should prioritize. For patients, STW provides a good resource for new Arachnoiditis treatments and education, as well as opportunities to meet others with the same challenges. Take a moment to create an account and get started on the StuffThatWorks survey. SURVEY Click play to view the insights from the last set of data, but we are currently working on a whole new set of insights from our 1000 participants. We are very excited to be releasing them soon so be sure and check back, plus we will be sending out a notice in our monthly newsletter .

  • Jeffery Smith

    < Back Jeffery Smith Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Matthew Bennett

    < Back Matthew Bennett Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Albert Rull Leonardo Jr.

    < Back Albert Rull Leonardo Jr. Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Jijun Xu

    < Back Jijun Xu Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Badih A Adada

    < Back Badih A Adada Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Robert B Hansen

    < Back Robert B Hansen Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Deepti Agarwal, MD

    < Back Deepti Agarwal, MD Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Howard Ginsberg

    < Back Howard Ginsberg Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Vorster

    < Back Vorster Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Aaron Shinkle

    < Back Aaron Shinkle Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Brad Wilson

    < Back Brad Wilson Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • William Nields

    < Back William Nields Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Niguel

    < Back Niguel Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Markus Jackson

    < Back Markus Jackson Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Antonio Poto

    < Back Antonio Poto Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Sotirios Bisdas

    < Back Sotirios Bisdas Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Christopher Jenner

    < Back Christopher Jenner Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Andrea Rhonea Henley-Seymour

    < Back Andrea Rhonea Henley-Seymour Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Margaret Aranda

    < Back Margaret Aranda Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Joseph V De Santi

    < Back Joseph V De Santi Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Patricia Y. Hong

    < Back Patricia Y. Hong Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • John R Vender

    < Back John R Vender Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Subhash K Patel

    < Back Subhash K Patel Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Charles Christian Adarkwah

    < Back Charles Christian Adarkwah Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Dr. Ashner Goldstein

    < Back Dr. Ashner Goldstein Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Mental and Emotional Health Support | Holistic Wellness Solutions

    Welcome to the Mental and Emotional Health page on the ACMCRN website, a valuable resource for individuals seeking information and support for mental and emotional wellness. Here you will find a variety of articles, resources, and tips on managing stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as addressing issues related to trauma, addiction, and grief. Our page offers self-help tools, including guided meditations and relaxation exercises, as well as information on local support groups and mental health providers. We update the page regularly to provide the latest information and resources on mental and emotional health, making it a comprehensive and reliable resource for anyone looking to improve their overall well-being. Join our supportive Zoom meetings in partnership with Friends in Arachnoiditis , tailored for women, men, and inclusive discussions. These sessions are a safe space for both patients and caregivers to share, learn, and find support. Check our Calendar of Events page for upcoming dates and times, and become part of a community that understands and supports your journey. Visit our Arachnoiditis Community Forum , a dedicated space where individuals touched by arachnoiditis come together to share experiences, offer support, and find solace among those who truly understand. This forum is your platform to discuss treatments, share personal stories, and connect with others on a similar journey. Our goal is to foster a supportive, informative, and compassionate community where everyone feels heard and empowered. Join us as we navigate the challenges and triumphs of living with arachnoiditis, united by hope and a shared desire for a brighter future. Visit our ACMCRN Private Support Group . This Facebook is a group dedicated to providing support and resources for individuals and families affected by Arachnoiditis. The group offers a safe and supportive community where members can share their experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who understand what it's like to live with this rare condition. With a focus on education and advocacy, the group provides valuable information and resources to help individuals better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. ​ ​ The ACMCRN Facebook group is a public-facing group that provides resources and support for individuals and families affected by rare diseases, including Arachnoiditis. With a focus on education, advocacy, and awareness, the group offers valuable information and resources to help individuals better manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Members of this group can access a wide range of resources, including informational articles, videos, and community events. Articles & Resources Video, "Understanding the Unique Mental Health Needs in People Facing Rare Disease" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tltw2FRsw1U ​ Accepting a Chronic Pain Diagnosis- a must read for anyone with Arachnoiditis or any chronic pain condition. Chronic Pain Diagnosis: A Trip Through the 5 Emotional Stages (practicalpainmanagement.com) ​ Becky Hill (CSF Leak and Arachnoiditis). Becky has a wonderful blog about her journey with Arachnoiditis and I highly recommend that you take the time to check it out. Here's a great article she wrote that I highly recommend you read if you're struggling daily living with a chronic illness like Arachnoiditis called Waves of Grief in Chronic Illness | Becky Hill's Blog (beckyhillblog.com) ​ Mindful Natalie- another great blog about accepting your life with chronic pain and how to embrace mindfulness. How Chronic Illness Taught Me to Apologize Less Often, With More Meaning | Mindful Natalie Understanding the Unique Mental Health Needs This video explores the specialized mental health challenges encountered by individuals with rare diseases and their families, underscoring the inadequacy of conventional psychological therapies in addressing their unique stressors and symptoms. It emphasizes the necessity for mental health interventions tailored to the specific experiences and anxieties related to living with a rare disease, highlighting personal stories and the establishment of the Esiason O'Hare Institute for Behavioral Medicine. This institute aims to develop and provide mental health interventions that are appropriately adapted to the needs of those with rare diseases, addressing the gap in standard therapeutic practices and the difficulty in finding therapists knowledgeable about rare diseases. Stages of Grief for People With Chronic Pain The video "Stages of Grief for People With Chronic Pain & Chronic Illness," presented by Amanda Pratt, a licensed clinical social worker, explores an adapted model of grief specific to those experiencing chronic pain or illness. Developed by Dr. Jennifer Martin, who lives with chronic conditions herself, this model expands the traditional five stages of grief to seven, capturing the unique emotional journey of individuals with chronic conditions. The stages include denial, pleading and bargaining, desperation, guilt and anger, anxiety and depression, loss of self and confusion, and acceptance. Each stage reflects the complex process of coming to terms with a chronic illness, emphasizing that this journey is non-linear and individualized. The model encourages understanding, adaptation, and finding new joys despite the challenges posed by chronic conditions.

  • Brian Erickson

    < Back Brian Erickson Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • Lance Hamilton

    < Back Lance Hamilton Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

  • John Downeys

    < Back John Downeys Doctorate of Physical Therapy (PT) Orthopedic & Spine Institute (248) 553-0010 (586) 771-9966 25100 Kelly Rd, Roseville, MI 48066, USA ​

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