Pain is a symptom of any number of medical problems, and many people need help with relieving the misery it can cause.
Since opening Pain Management of Williamsport two months ago, Dr. Ayaz M. Khan has already seen his share of patients.
"I treat any kind of chronic pain," he said. "We help people with headache pain. Back pain is probably the most common pain we treat."
Ayaz uses a comprehensive approach in treating his patients, often working with other health care practitioners including chiropractors to determine the best course of action for people.
Many times patients are referred to Ayaz.
A native of India, Ayaz has medical training in orthopedics and anesthesiology.
He has a staff of three working for him at his office at 553 E. Third St.
"We also do procedures here," he said.
Many of his patients are those suffering from fibromyalgia, a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.
Ayaz noted that women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men.
A variety of medications can be used to help control symptoms.
Fibromyalgia is just one of a number of muscoloskeletal pain conditions he is able to treat.
He also sees his share of people injured at work, including those from the natural gas industry.
Ayaz, who formerly practiced medicine in upstate New York, said Williamsport offers a great opportunity for his practice.
He noted that just two other pain management physicians practice in the immediate area.
"Everyone get injured at some point, and billions of dollars are lost in the economy due to back pain," he said.
Ayaz also is seeing his share of patients struggling with heroin addiction.
He noted that he can successfully help treat heroin addicts with suboxone.
The Food & Drug Administration-approved medication contains the active ingredient, buprenorphine hydrochloride, which works to reduce the symptoms of opiate dependence.
