Florida Pain Medicine

Lupus and Joint Pain: Strategies for Managing Symptoms 🦋💪

Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, can cause widespread inflammation throughout the body, including the joints. For those living with lupus, joint pain and stiffness are common symptoms that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

Understanding Lupus-Related Joint Pain:
* Common Areas Affected: Hands, wrists, and knees are often susceptible to pain and swelling.
* Flare-Ups: Symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go, often increasing in severity during flare-ups.

Effective Pain Management Techniques:
* Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytochemicals can help reduce inflammation.
* Gentle Exercise: Activities like yoga, swimming, or walking can keep joints flexible and strengthen muscles without overstraining.
* Adequate Rest: Balancing activity with rest is crucial to prevent overexertion and manage fatigue.
* Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or biofeedback can help manage the emotional stress that often accompanies chronic illness.

Lifestyle Adaptation Tips:
* Adaptive Tools: Use ergonomic tools that help ease the strain on joints during daily tasks.
* Warmth Therapy: Applying heat can help relieve joint stiffness, especially in the morning.
* Professional Support: Regular consultations with rheumatologists and participation in support groups can provide additional coping strategies and emotional support.

Living with lupus means being proactive about health and adjusting lifestyle habits to manage symptoms effectively. Whether you're dealing with mild joint discomfort or more severe pain, these strategies can help you maintain an active and fulfilling life despite the challenges of lupus.

If you or someone you know is struggling with lupus and joint pain, remember that you're not alone. Many resources and treatment options are available to help manage pain and improve overall well-being.

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Why do patients rate us so well?! Find out here: https://g.co/kgs/2m3JVRV

Did you know we have over 286 reviews at 4.8 stars? Compare our stars to other interventional pain management practices.

We're thrilled to share a patient's appreciation for Dr. Mascaro:

"Dr. Mascaro is wonderful. He explains the procedure in detail before, and during the procedure. He answered all my questions and put me at ease on the process. His staff was also very supportive and friendly. I highly recommend.”

At Florida Pain Medicine, we value thoughtful patient care, and Dr. Mascaro embodies this perfectly.

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🌟 We are incredibly proud of Dr. Andrea Cordova at Florida Pain Medicine for her outstanding work in transforming lives through innovative treatments! 🌟

Donna’s journey with diabetic neuropathy pain seemed endless until Dr. Cordova recommended HFX in August 2023. After a trial week, Donna experienced a significant change, regaining her sleep and reducing pain by 60%-80%. Today, she's even completed her first 5K! 🏃‍♀️

At Florida Pain Medicine, we are dedicated to offering cutting-edge solutions like HFX to enhance our patients' quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with painful diabetic neuropathy, take the assessment to see if HFX is right for you: www.HFXforPDN.com/ -assessment.

✅ HFX is a small device that blocks pain signals at the source
✅ Covered by all major insurance plans, including Medicare
✅ Available through our expert pain management team at Florida Pain Medicine



*Results may vary. Important safety & risk information: www.HFXforPDN.com/safety.*

Foot Pain Relief: Tackling Plantar Fasciitis in Sunny Florida 🌞👟

In Florida, where the weather invites year-round outdoor activities, foot pain can really put a damper on your plans. Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, affects many Floridians, from avid runners to retirees.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. It's particularly common in people who are on their feet a lot, those with high arches or flat feet, and individuals who wear unsupportive footwear.

Symptoms Include:
* Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel
* Pain that is usually worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods
* Discomfort that decreases with movement but can return after prolonged standing

Management Strategies:
* Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
* Stretching Exercises: Regular stretching of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can enhance flexibility and relieve pain.
* Icing: Applying ice to the heel for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation.
* Rest and Elevation: Minimize activities that cause heel pain and elevate your foot to decrease swelling.

If plantar fasciitis is interrupting your active lifestyle, consider consulting a healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan. In Florida, where you're likely to spend a lot of time on your feet enjoying the sunshine, taking care of them isn’t just a relief—it’s a necessity!

Take steps today to walk comfortably tomorrow. Your feet will thank you!

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🎉 We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Maulik Bhalani, our esteemed CEO and interventional pain management physician at Florida Pain Medicine, has been honored once again as a Top Doc by his physician peers in the 2024 Tampa Magazine awards. 🏆 This accolade, which he has received for over 8 years including 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024, is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise in interventional pain management. 💪

Dr. Bhalani is deeply humbled and grateful for the trust and belief his fellow physicians have placed in him. This recognition is a reflection of his commitment to providing top-notch medical care and his leadership at Florida Pain Medicine. Under his guidance, we have become the top choice for pain management in the Tampa Bay, St. Pete, and Daytona Beach markets. 🌟 Our patient reviews, which are higher and more numerous than any of our competitors, speak volumes about the quality of care we deliver. Just search “Florida Pain Medicine” on Google or Google Maps to see why we are the best and read our patient testimonials. 📈 The patients have spoken! 🗣️

At Florida Pain Medicine, our mission is to "restore function, relieve life." We are grateful for the opportunity to make a significant impact on our patients' lives every day, helping them reduce or eliminate their pain and return to the activities they love.

Thank you to our amazing team, our supportive community, and most importantly, our patients, for trusting us with your care. 🙏 We look forward to continuing to serve you with excellence. Florida Pain Medicine is a core rotation site and partner for the University South Florida Health ACGME - Pain Medicine fellowship, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation residency programs. 🎓

Full video 🎥 productions coming soon!

Revolutionizing Knee Pain Treatment with Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy in Florida 🌴🔬

In the sunny state of Florida, where active lifestyles are the norm, knee pain can significantly hinder the ability to enjoy everyday activities. From vibrant walkways to serene trails, residents are turning to innovative treatments like stem cell therapy to manage and heal knee pain caused by conditions like osteoarthritis or injuries.

What is Stem Cell Therapy? Stem cell therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that utilizes the body's own cells to promote healing and reduce inflammation. Stem cells are harvested either from the patient's own body (autologous stem cells) or a donor (allogeneic stem cells), and then precisely injected into the damaged knee joint.

Why Consider Stem Cell Therapy?
* Natural Regeneration: Stem cells can differentiate into cartilage, helping to repair knee damage rather than just masking pain.
* Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves simple injections, making it less invasive than traditional knee surgery.
* Quick Recovery: Patients typically experience minimal downtime, allowing for a quicker return to daily activities.

Ideal Candidates: Ideal for individuals suffering from degenerative knee conditions or injuries who have not responded well to standard treatments like physical therapy or are seeking alternatives to knee replacement surgery.

Consulting with Experts: If you’re in Florida and exploring options for managing knee pain, consulting with a specialist who offers stem cell therapy could provide insights into whether this treatment is suitable for your condition. Florida Pain specializes in regenerative medicine offer comprehensive evaluations to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Embrace a future where advanced science meets natural healing, and get back to enjoying Florida's beautiful outdoors without knee pain holding you back.

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A Shoutout to Dr. Peterson for Outstanding Care 🌟

Why do patients rate us so well?! Find out here: https://g.co/kgs/iAfsJcu

Did you know we have over 720 reviews at 4.8 stars? Compare our stars to other interventional pain management practices.

We're thrilled to share a patient's appreciation for Dr. Peterson:

"I feel that Dr. Peterson has the best interest in his patient to help with their conditions..”

At Florida Pain Medicine, we value thoughtful patient care, and Dr. Peterson embodies this perfectly.

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Transforming Pain Relief: DRG Stimulation for Chronic Pain Management in Florida 🌴🔌

Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation is emerging as a revolutionary approach for those suffering from chronic pain, particularly complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

What is DRG Stimulation? DRG stimulation involves targeting the dorsal root ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the spinal column that plays a crucial role in the development and management of chronic pain. This therapy uses a device to deliver electrical impulses directly to the DRG, modulating pain signals before they reach the brain.

Why DRG Stimulation?
* Targeted Relief: Unlike traditional spinal cord stimulation, DRG targets specific areas of the body, allowing for more precise pain relief.
* Highly Effective: Particularly beneficial for localized pain in the lower body, such as CRPS, that hasn't responded well to other treatments.
* Control and Flexibility: Patients can adjust the stimulation settings to meet changing pain conditions or activities.

Patient Scenario: Imagine a patient in Tampa, previously an avid runner, develops CRPS following a minor foot surgery. Traditional pain management methods brought little relief. With DRG stimulation, they find significant pain reduction, allowing them to gradually return to running and enjoy the sunny Florida outdoors once more.

Lifestyle Integration: DRG stimulation devices are designed to be discreet and manageable, fitting seamlessly into a patient's daily life. Patients can engage in most normal activities without discomfort, making it a practical solution for long-term pain management.

Consulting with a Specialist: If you or someone you know is battling chronic pain and conventional therapies have been insufficient, consulting with a pain management specialist about DRG stimulation could be a life-changing step.
Florida's leading pain management centers are equipped with the latest technologies and expert teams to guide you through the process, from initial consultation to device implantation and aftercare.

Rediscover life beyond chronic pain with DRG stimulation—a modern solution for a pain-free future.

Experience Relief: The Role of Epidural Steroid Injections in Managing Sciatica Pain 🌴💉

In the sunny climes of Florida, where outdoor activities are year-round, sciatica can significantly hinder lifestyle enjoyment. Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a pain management technique used widely to provide relief from chronic back and leg pain, often caused by sciatica.

What is Sciatica? Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down through each leg. It's typically caused by a herniated disk or bone spur compressing part of the nerve.

How Do Epidural Steroid Injections Help?
* Pain Relief: ESIs deliver steroids directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
* Functionality: Many patients experience significant improvement in mobility and reduced need for oral painkillers.
* Procedure: The process is minimally invasive, performed under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accuracy, and typically completed within an hour.

Considerations and Care:
* Effectiveness: While ESIs are not a cure for the underlying causes of sciatica, they can effectively manage pain for months at a time.
* Follow-Up: Some may require multiple injections over a period of time for optimal results.
* Recovery: Patients can generally resume their normal activities within a day, with full effect of the steroids taking a few days to manifest.

Living with Sciatica in Florida: Whether you're a golfer or a gardener, managing sciatica is crucial to maintaining an active lifestyle. If you're struggling with persistent sciatic pain, consult with a pain management specialist about whether epidural steroid injections could be a suitable treatment option for you.

Experience the freedom of movement again and enjoy everything the Sunshine State has to offer, pain-free.

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Cheers to Dr. Cordova! 🌟👩‍⚕️

Why do patients rate us so well?! Find out here: https://g.co/kgs/iAfsJcu

Did you know we have over 720 reviews at 4.8 stars? Compare our stars to other interventional pain management practices.

We're excited to share a testimonial about Dr. Cordova from one of our valued patients:

"I must say. I am very impressed with Doctor Cordova. She explains every little detail and has the bedside manner of a saint.”

Not only does Dr. Cordova provide exceptional care, but she’s also one of our providers who speaks Spanish!

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Safeguarding Workers: Understanding Shoulder Injuries and Workers’ Compensation in Florida 🏗️🔧

In the bustling industries of Florida, from construction sites in Tampa to warehouses in Daytona, shoulder injuries are a common occupational hazard. These injuries, ranging from rotator cuff tears to shoulder impingement, can occur due to repetitive overhead activities, heavy lifting, or sudden accidents.

Common Types of Shoulder Injuries in the Workplace:
* Rotator Cuff Tears: Caused by repetitive stress or acute trauma, leading to pain and decreased range of motion.
* Shoulder Impingement: Occurs when shoulder muscles are pinched under the shoulder blade, causing pain during lifting movements.
* Dislocations: Often result from falls or sudden impacts, leading to intense immediate pain and immobility.

Proactive Pain Management and Recovery:
* Immediate Care: Apply ice to reduce swelling and take rest to decrease further aggravation.
* Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is crucial for restoring function and strength while managing pain.
* Workplace Modifications: Adjusting work practices and ergonomic assessments can prevent future injuries.

Navigating Workers’ Compensation: Florida workers’ compensation laws ensure that employees receive medical treatment and compensation for lost wages due to work-related injuries. It’s important to report the injury to your employer immediately and seek medical evaluation to document the injury and begin appropriate treatment.

Long-Term Considerations: Proper management and compliance with treatment plans are essential for full recovery. Continued ergonomic practices and workplace safety training can help mitigate the risk of recurrent injuries.

Shoulder injuries can significantly impact your quality of life and ability to work, but understanding your rights and available treatments under Florida’s workers’ compensation can ease the recovery process. Stay informed and proactive about your health to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.

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Road to Recovery: Managing Herniated Discs After Auto Accidents in Florida 🚗💥

Navigating Florida's busy highways can sometimes lead to auto accidents with significant injuries, such as herniated discs. This painful condition occurs when the gel-like center of a disc ruptures through a weak area in the tough outer ring, impacting nerves nearby.

Understanding Herniated Discs:
* Causes: The abrupt impact and compression during an auto accident can cause the spinal discs to herniate.
* Symptoms: Depending on the disc's location, symptoms might include intense back pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs. The discomfort can increase during movements like bending forward or lifting objects.

Detailed Pain Management Strategies:
* Physical Therapy: Engage in targeted exercises that promote spinal flexibility and strength, reducing pressure on the nerves.
* Heat/Ice Therapy: Regular application of ice packs immediately following the injury can help control swelling, while heat pads can relax tightened muscles and improve blood flow for healing.
* Pain Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and pain. In severe cases, stronger prescriptions may be necessary.
* Lifestyle Modifications: Adjust your daily activities to include ergonomic tools and techniques, reducing strain on your back while it heals.

Advanced Treatment Options:
* Epidural Steroid Injections: These can effectively reduce inflammation and pain around the affected nerves, offering significant relief.
* Spine Surgery: In cases where non-invasive treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the herniated disc and alleviate pressure on the spinal nerves.

Navigating Recovery in Florida: If you're involved in an auto accident in cities like Tampa, Florida, Saint Petersburg, Florida, or Daytona, Florida it’s crucial to get evaluated by a healthcare professional experienced with spinal injuries. Florida Pain Medicine specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions like herniated discs, offering comprehensive care that includes advanced imaging techniques and personalized treatment plans.

Stay Safe This 4th of July: Managing Burn Injuries from Fireworks 🎆🚑

As we gear up for the 4th of July celebrations across Florida, it’s important to prioritize safety. Every year, festivities turn to accidents as fireworks can cause severe burn injuries, which are both painful and preventable.

Understanding Firework-Related Burn Injuries:
* Common Burns: Sparklers, firecrackers, and aerial fireworks can cause burns varying from mild to severe, affecting the hands, face, and eyes most frequently.
* First Aid Measures: Cool the burn with lukewarm water, cover it with a clean, dry cloth, and seek medical attention for anything more than a minor burn.
* Symptoms to Watch For: Redness, pain, swelling, and blistering.

Pain Management Tips:
* Immediate Care: After cooling the burn, over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
* Follow-Up Care: Keep the wound clean and monitor for signs of infection. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dressing changes or further treatment.

Preventive Measures:
* Safety First: Always follow the instructions on fireworks packaging and never relight 'dud' fireworks.
* Professional Displays: Consider attending a professional fireworks show rather than handling fireworks yourself.
* Supervision: Always supervise children around fireworks, even seemingly harmless sparklers.

The 4th of July should be a time of joy and celebration. By taking the right precautions and knowing how to manage potential injuries, you can ensure a safe holiday for you and your loved ones. Remember, no display is worth risking your health and safety.

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Dr. Murphy’s Exceptional Care 🌟🙏

Why do patients rate us so well?! Find out here: https://g.co/kgs/iAfsJcu

Did you know we have over 720 reviews at 4.8 stars? Compare our stars to other interventional pain management practices

We love hearing feedback from our patients, and today we're sharing some kind words about Dr. Murphy from a recent visit.

"I love Dr Murphy. He is always kind and patient. He listens to me and then we figure out a solution together. Whenever I run into a situation, he is always willing to do anything to fix it for me. My only complaint is that he won’t move 2300 miles away so he can keep being my doctor since I moved away. I really wish he could stay my doctor. Anyone who is lucky enough to have Dr Murphy has their doctor should do whatever they can do stay with him as there is no one as skillful or more caring and that is the best combo for a pain management doc."

Check out more of Dr Murphys great reviews here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/eG5hNfNyVWmXu82n6

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🌟🎓🎉 Congratulations to the bright physicians of tomorrow graduating from the University of South Florida Pain Medicine Fellowship Program, from your wonderful faculty physicians at Florida Pain Medicine! 🌟

On July 1, we always remember this special day as this year’s class graduates 🎓, and the new fellowship class arrives to begin their journey with so much energy.

At Florida Pain Medicine, we are incredibly proud of our partnership with USF Health and our dedicated physicians—Dr. Maulik Bhalani, Andrea Cordova-Ogg, Lane Petersen, and Shawn Murphy—who have had the honor of teaching these talented ACGME USF Health pain medicine fellows. They not only learn how to manage everything from cancer pain patients to those with low back pain, but they also develop incredible skills in performing highly targeted 🎯 and complex pain injections 💉💉💉💉 and surgical procedures 🏥. It has been a fantastic year filled with memories, growth, and invaluable learning experiences.

While we celebrate their achievements, we know the journey of learning and hard work continues. We wish our fellows nothing but the best of luck and immense success as they embark on their new journeys from South Florida all the way to Seattle, Washington.

Check out our attached pictures and watch the Florida Pain Medicine physicians in action, teaching and inspiring these brilliant young minds.

Navigating Spinal Surgery Recovery: Workers’ Comp and Pain Management 🛠️🌟

Undergoing spinal surgery can be a significant step towards alleviating chronic back pain, especially for those who have sustained workplace injuries. Managing your recovery properly, particularly under workers' compensation, is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Key Points for Post-Surgery Recovery:

* Workers' Compensation: If your surgery is related to a workplace injury, ensure that all procedures, follow-ups, and rehabilitation are documented and covered under your workers’ comp claim.
* Pain Management: Post-operative pain management is vital. Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a pain relief plan that may include medications, physical therapy, and other non-invasive treatments.

Enhancing Recovery:

* Follow Doctor’s Orders: Adhere strictly to the recovery regimen prescribed by your surgeon to avoid complications.
* Physical Therapy: Engaging in rehabilitative therapy is essential. It helps restore strength and mobility, speeding up your return to daily activities.
* Regular Check-Ups: Keep all appointments for follow-ups to monitor your healing progress and adjust treatments as necessary.

Why It Matters: Effective recovery from spinal surgery not only helps relieve pain but also improves your overall functionality and quality of life. Ensuring that your recovery is managed correctly under workers' compensation can also help alleviate financial stress, allowing you to focus fully on healing.

If you’re preparing for spinal surgery or are currently in recovery, remember that taking proactive steps in managing pain and following your recovery plan are key to a successful outcome. Stay in close communication with your care team and report any issues immediately.

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A Shoutout to Dr. Mascaro for Outstanding Care 🌟

Why do patients rate us so well?! Find out here: https://g.co/kgs/2m3JVRV

Did you know we have over 286 reviews at 4.8 stars? Compare our stars to other interventional pain management practices.

We're thrilled to share a patient's appreciation for Dr. Mascaro:

"Dr. Mascaro is wonderful. He explains the procedure in detail before, and during the procedure. He answered all my questions and put me at ease on the process. His staff was also very supportive and friendly. I highly recommend.”

At Florida Pain Medicine, we value thoughtful patient care, and Dr. Mascaro embodies this perfectly.

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Let’s make Bob Ross proud tonight! Can’t wait to see everyone. 😊

Unlocking Relief with Fluoroscopic Guided Piriformis Injection 🎯💉

Dealing with deep buttock pain or sciatica-like symptoms? A fluoroscopic guided piriformis injection might be the key to relief. This precise, image-guided procedure targets the piriformis muscle, a small muscle located deep in the buttock region that can affect the nearby sciatic nerve when inflamed or spasmed.

What is a Fluoroscopic Guided Piriformis Injection? This procedure uses fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray, to accurately guide the injection of medication directly into the piriformis muscle. This can help alleviate pain caused by Piriformis Syndrome, which occurs when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve.

Benefits of the Procedure:
* Targeted Relief: By using fluoroscopic guidance, the injection is precisely delivered, increasing the effectiveness of the treatment.
* Quick Procedure: The injection process is quick, generally taking less than an hour, including preparation and recovery time.
* Reduced Symptoms: Patients often experience significant reductions in pain and improvement in mobility shortly after the procedure.

Ideal for Patients Who:
* Have not responded to conventional therapy such as physical therapy or medication.
* Experience significant discomfort from piriformis syndrome affecting daily activities.

If you're struggling with persistent buttock or sciatica-like pain and looking for a minimally invasive solution, consider discussing fluoroscopic guided piriformis injections with your healthcare provider. This targeted approach may provide the relief you need to return to an active, pain-free life.

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Please vote for Florida Pain Medicine. Choose category “Health & Wellness” then select subcategory “Pain Management”.

Thank you for all your support over the years as we have brought you the Best of the Best in the Pain Management medical practice in the Tampa Bay Area!

Please feel free to share and spread the word to others….

🌟 We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Maulik Bhalani was invited to speak at the prestigious Becker’s 21st Annual Spine, Orthopedic, and Pain Management-Driven ASC Conference in Chicago! 🌟

Dr. Bhalani’s presentation was a highlight of the conference, showcasing his leadership and expertise in the field. The conference brings together top interventional pain management, orthopedic, and spine surgeons, as well as leaders in the ambulatory surgical center industry, making it a premier event for advancing knowledge and practices in these areas.

Starting your own surgery center is no small feat. It involves navigating complex clinical, business, and financial challenges, and Dr. Bhalani’s insights were invaluable to all attendees. His ability to transform innovative ideas into practical strategies is truly inspirational.

Swipe through the photos to see Dr. Bhalani in action, engaging with fellow professionals and sharing his expertise. His presence at this conference underscores his status as a thought leader and innovator in the medical community.

Join us in celebrating Dr. Bhalani’s achievements and his ongoing commitment to improving patient care through excellence and innovation! 🩺👏