Retired New York City firefighter Kevin Larkin of Farmingville meets once a week with a group of classic car enthusiasts. They talk about their latest projects and upcoming shows and share a meal that is usually prepared by Larkin. Persistent and increasing neck pain was beginning to get in his way.
"On any given week, there can be 15 to 20 guys who get together," said Larkin. "If I’m making chicken cutlets for everyone, I’m on my feet for a long time. But, when my neck would start to hurt, the pain would move down to my back and I’d have to sit down for an hour at a time to get relief."
Larkin’s daughter suggested he try the Back & Neck Pain Center and he made the call. After his initial evaluation, which included a thorough exam, Larkin received his care plan. He was referred to Mather Hospital’s Outpatient Physical Therapy program where he received treatment twice a week.
"It went great. I started to feel better after the first couple of sessions," he said. "They showed me what I needed to do, checking my balance along the way, and I repeated the exercises at home. Today, the pain is virtually gone and my range of motion is much improved. Now I can stand and cook for four hours without any problem."
The Mather Hospital Back & Neck Pain Center (BNPC) was created to help people with a wide range of pain. The Center’s goal is to develop a treatment plan that starts with the most efficient and effective, least invasive interventions.
The first step is an evaluation by the program’s nurse practitioner who then confers with the clinical care team to determine the best course of treatment. Referrals may be made to any combination of specialists, including physical therapy, pain management, chiropractic, orthopedic or neurosurgery, based on each patient’s need. The center incorporates support programs to help people learn lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, that are critical to help relieve pain, and prevent future recurrences.
Contact the Back & Neck Pain Center at 631-686-2565.