For many years, back pain was a constant, unwelcome companion for Sherry Schaaf. Seeking relief, she had undergone back surgery and tried numerous interventions, often traveling long distances to Silverdale or beyond, with little success. She describes her trips as exhausting—physically, mentally, and emotionally- and while each treatment seemed promising, the relief never lasted, leaving only frustration, fatigue, and constant pain.

Sherry was beginning to lose hope until two years ago, when she began seeing Interventional Pain Management specialist Kim Schorer, CRNA, NSPM-C, at Forks Community Hospital.

What is Interventional Pain Management?
Interventional pain management is a medical subspecialty that focuses on diagnosing and treating chronic pain through minimally invasive procedures, targeting the source of pain rather than just alleviating symptoms. Unlike general pain medications that mask discomfort, interventional techniques—such as injections, nerve blocks, or other guided therapies—address specific areas of the spine, joints, and nerves to provide lasting relief.

A Roadmap to Lasting Relief
When Sherry scheduled her first appointment with Kim at Bogachiel Clinic, she noted she was feeling cautiously optimistic. From the start, Kim carefully reviewed Sherry’s past MRI and X-ray results, as well as her history of procedures, and took the time needed to answer each of her questions, clearly explaining new options and working with Sherry to develop a personalized, step-by-step treatment plan—giving her a renewed sense of control and hope for the first time in years.

Over the next two years, Sherry received targeted treatments for her spine and hip. With patience and adherence to her personalized plan, she began noticing positive changes.

In the last six months, Sherry shared that her back pain has significantly decreased, and some days and weeks she is entirely pain-free. Kim also helped Sherry manage sciatic pain that radiated down to her feet- something she never thought possible!

In addition to her interventional pain management treatments, Sherry has embraced exercise, improved nutrition, massage therapy, and a steadfast walking routine, all encouraged and guided by Kim and her team. One of Sherry’s original goals was simple yet deeply meaningful: to work in and enjoy her garden without debilitating pain. Sherry shares, “Today, I can happily say that the goal is being met!”

Thanks to the Interventional Pain Management program at FCH and Kim Schorer, CRNA, NSPM-C, Sherry has regained mobility, independence, and hope.

To learn more about Interventional Pain Management available at FCH, visit: https://www.forkshospital.org/service/pain-management/