Imagine Your Life
Without Chronic Pain
Imagine Your Life Without Chronic Pain
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 24% of American adults suffer from chronic pain, which has been linked to numerous physical and mental health conditions and is often unresponsive to medication and physical therapy.
This condition may arise as a result of injury, aging, acute injury, genetic predisposition, or nerve damage. It takes several forms, ranging from arthritis to neuropathy, and requires integrated treatment and symptom management that addresses each patient’s physical and psychological health. At our Mill Valley clinic serving San Francisco and the Bay Area, our pain specialists can help you achieve successful remission from chronic pain through our unique approach to treatment and the highest quality of care.
Want to know more? Contact our intake team and book a free information session.
Chronic Pain Conditions Treated at Our Bay Area Pain Clinic
Low Back & Spine Pain (Including Neck Pain)
The lumbar region can produce intense pain, which results in a patient struggling to sit, move, or stand up straight. Chronic back pain may be caused by bulging or ruptured discs, sciatica, muscle strain, arthritis, osteoporosis, and even poor posture. Risk factors include age, excess weight, improper lifting, lack of exercise, smoking, and diseases such as cancer. Recovery Without Walls has developed a sophisticated program for the treatment of low back and spine pain.
Headache & Migraine Pain
An estimated 3.3 million Americans have chronic migraines, and even more deal with chronic headaches. People with these conditions will experience headaches 15 or more days each month for longer than three months. The pain is constant and incapacitating, resulting in nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Causes may include inflammation of blood vessels around the brain, infection, intracranial pressure, or traumatic brain injury. Our expert clinicians will combine cutting-edge pharmacology and holistic therapies for the treatment of chronic headache and migraine.
Cancer Pain & Neuropathic Pain
Many cancer patients find neuropathic pain to be completely debilitating. Also called nerve pain, this category of chronic pain leads to loss of function, increased sensitivity, and spontaneous pain. It may result from direct damage to the nervous system from a tumor or from cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Left untreated, this diagnosis holds worse outcomes for older patients. For successful resolution, nerve pain requires a tailored therapeutic approach from a Bay Area pain clinic.
Buprenorphine for Pain
Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment for Chronic Pain
Buprenorphine, also called Suboxone, is an FDA-approved medication commonly used in the treatment of addiction. In recent years, it has also been found to be extremely effective for the management of acute and chronic pain. Dr. Howard Kornfeld of Recovery Without Walls has pioneered the use of buprenorphine (Suboxone) for the treatment of chronic pain in the United States. His published innovations have received wide recognition and support.
Most often used to replace other, often ineffective, opioid medications that carry higher risks, buprenorphine can be carefully provided to a wide range of patients suffering from chronic pain — including the elderly — and become a quality-of-life-restoring treatment strategy.
Advanced Pharmacology for
Non-Addictive Pain Relief
Because it is a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine holds much less addictive potential than other opioid drugs on the market. Suboxone’s unique pharmacology acts on certain areas of the brain – providing potent relief from pain and opioid withdrawal – while behaving as an antagonist on other opioid receptors. This means that people taking this medication do not experience the euphoria associated with heroin and other opioid derivatives.
Buprenorphine is effective for patients with chronic pain or pain complicated by opioid dependence. Studies of patients who transitioned from high-dose opioids to Suboxone have documented improved pain control, improved control of psychiatric symptoms, and a much lower risk of overdose. Patients treated with buprenorphine show improved social functioning, increased retention in treatment, reduced criminal activity, and lower rates of illicit substance use.
Have Questions? Our Team Can Help
Struggling with ongoing pain that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments? Our integrative team offers a fresh, holistic approach to chronic pain management that goes beyond quick fixes. We combine personalized care, advanced diagnostics, and supportive therapies to help you feel more in control of your body and your life. If you’re ready to explore options that address the root causes of your pain, book a free info session with our team today.
Have questions about your treatment options, what to expect, or how our process works? The Recovery Without Walls team is here to help. Reach out anytime. We’re happy to walk you through the next steps and support you in finding the care that’s right for you
Functional Medicine for Pain Management
Benefits of Holistic Pain Management
Chronic pain is not a simple issue with one universal treatment. Instead, its resolution requires patient-centered care addressing the whole person. Our team analyzes each client’s history; current medications; and physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health. In integrative medicine, the patient’s environment, biochemistry, personal needs, and circumstances inform a multifaceted approach to chronic pain management that minimizes invasive procedures.
Through personalized care and customized treatment plans, individuals in the Recovery Without Walls integrative pain management program find a worthwhile, effective path to healing backed by the expertise of our clinical team.
Schedule an Information Session
Are you interested in healing completely: physically, mentally, and spiritually? Contact Recovery Without Walls to learn more about our integrated, comprehensive approach to pain management and drug and alcohol addiction treatment through customized treatment plans. We’ll evaluate your medical history and collaborate with your primary care provider for an effective treatment experience.
Functional Medicine for Pain Management
Benefits of Holistic Pain Management
Chronic pain is not a simple issue with one universal treatment. Instead, its resolution requires patient-centered care addressing the whole person. Our team analyzes each client’s history; current medications; and physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health. In integrative medicine, the patient’s environment, biochemistry, personal needs, and circumstances inform our approach to chronic pain management.
Through personalized care and customized interventions, individuals in the Recovery Without Walls integrative pain management program find a worthwhile, effective path to healing backed by the expertise of our clinical team.
Integrative Pain Management at Recovery Without Walls
Tell Us How We Can Help
Reach out to Recovery Without Walls today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Low Back, Neck, and Spine Pain
Understanding What Causes Spine and Neck Pain
Pain in your lower back, neck, or spine can come from many sources. At Recovery Without Walls, our Bay Area pain specialists take a whole-body approach to find the root causes of your discomfort. Pain can stem from past injuries, ongoing physical stress, or other health conditions.
Some common causes include:
- poor posture
- disc issues
- arthritis
- nerve compression
- chronic stress
If you are in pain, lifestyle habits like smoking, prolonged smartphone use, being overweight, or lack of movement can also play a role. Whether your pain started suddenly or got worse over time, we work with you to uncover what’s really going on and guide you toward lasting relief.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Spinal Pain
Symptoms of back or neck pain can range from mild stiffness to sharp, radiating discomfort.
You may notice:
- aching in your spine
- tight muscles
- difficulty standing
- difficulty sitting for long periods
Pain might also shoot into your arms or legs, or you might feel tingling or numbness. Some people experience headaches that begin at the base of the skull. In serious cases, you may have trouble walking, lose strength, or notice changes in bladder or bowel control.
If any of these symptoms occur, especially suddenly, it’s important to seek medical care right away.
How We Diagnose Back and Neck Pain
To treat your pain effectively, we start with a full evaluation. This includes a physical exam, questions about your health history, and tests like X-rays or MRIs. These help us see what’s happening inside your spine, including issues with bones, discs, or nerves. We may also order blood tests or check your movement and strength with functional assessments. At our San Francisco Bay Area clinic, we don’t just look at symptoms. We explore how your lifestyle, body mechanics, and past injuries contribute to your current pain.
Treatment Options That Address the Whole Person
At Recovery Without Walls, our goal is to relieve your pain while improving your overall health.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan might include:
- Buprenorphine (Suboxone), a safe and effective option for managing chronic pain.
- We provide nutrition advice and functional medicine to lower inflammation and support healing.
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and prevent future injury.
- Acupuncture, mindfulness techniques, and other integrative therapies.
- Nerve blocks, trigger point injections, or spinal cord stimulation when appropriate.
We treat more than symptoms—we help you get your life back using a comprehensive, non-addictive approach.
Knowing the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Pain
Acute pain usually starts suddenly after an injury like a strain or fall. It tends to get better within a few weeks. Chronic pain, however, lasts three months or more. It may stay even after an injury heals.
Chronic spine or neck pain can affect your sleep, energy, and mood. This type of pain often needs long-term support and a more personalized treatment plan. At Recovery Without Walls, we offer holistic care that goes beyond quick fixes to support long-term relief and resilience.
Tips to Help Prevent Neck and Back Pain
Taking care of your spine can help prevent future problems. Start with small changes like using good posture, especially at work:
- Set up an ergonomic workspace
- Avoid slouching
- Take regular breaks to stretch.
- Exercise and strength training can protect your back muscles
- Avoiding smoking and managing your weight also reduces strain on the spine
Learning how to lift safely and managing stress are also key. Our clinic offers personalized wellness tips and posture assessments to help you protect your spine and stay pain-free.
When to Call a Pain Specialist
If you’ve been dealing with pain for more than a few weeks without improvement, it may be time to see a specialist. Get help right away if you have numbness, weakness, shooting pain, or trouble walking. Other warning signs include losing control of your bladder or bowels or having pain after surgery that won’t go away. Our pain management experts in Mill Valley and the greater Bay Area can help you find answers, relief, and a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Why Recovery Without Walls Is a Trusted Partner in Healing
Recovery Without Walls is known for our whole-person, proven approach. Our board-certified pain physicians and integrative health experts provide care tailored to you—not just your diagnosis. We use new treatments like buprenorphine. We also provide lifestyle help, nutrition advice, and physical therapy. Whether you tried many options or just started looking, we offer kind, forward-thinking care to help you heal and move on.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Relief?
If you’re ready to begin your recovery journey, schedule a consultation with our Mill Valley clinic today. We’ll walk you through the next steps, answer your questions, and help you gather any information you need for insurance reimbursement. You can also access our secure digital portal to book appointments and communicate with your care team.
Let’s work together to bring you back to balance—body, mind, and spirit.
Headache & Migraine
Understanding the Difference Between Headaches and Migraines
Not all headaches are created equal. While both migraines and typical headaches cause pain, migraines are more complex and often much more intense. Migraines involve changes in brain activity and may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraine attacks can last for hours or even days. In contrast, a general headache may result from tension, dehydration, or sinus pressure. If you have frequent or severe head pain, our Bay Area pain team can help you find the cause. We explore treatments that fit your life.
Common Symptoms That May Signal a Migraine
Migraine symptoms usually include moderate to severe head pain, often on one side of the head. The pain may feel pulsing or throbbing and can come with nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. Some people experience mood changes or food cravings before the pain begins. These early warning signs are called a prodrome. Others may see flashing lights or patterns—this is called a migraine aura. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you take action and manage the migraine before it escalates.
How Other Symptoms Relate to Migraines
Migraines can affect more than just your head. Many people with migraines experience neck pain, dizziness, nausea, or heightened sensitivity to touch. Even simple actions like brushing your hair may feel uncomfortable due to a condition called allodynia. These additional symptoms are caused by how the brain and nervous system process pain. At Recovery Without Walls, we offer a whole-person approach to migraine care. This includes medicine, combined therapies, and lifestyle help.
What to Know About Migraine Aura
A migraine aura is a group of visual or sensory symptoms that appear before or during a migraine. These can include flashing lights, zigzag lines, numbness, or trouble speaking. Auras usually last between 5 and 60 minutes. About one-third of people with migraines experience aura, and some may have it without any head pain. If you notice any of these changes, talk to a medical provider. Our clinic can evaluate your symptoms and provide advanced treatment options.
When to Get Help for Migraine Symptoms
If your migraines are getting worse or more frequent, it’s time to talk to a provider. Chronic migraine is diagnosed when you have symptoms on 15 or more days each month for over three months. Seek immediate care if you experience sudden, severe headaches or if your headache comes with confusion, speech problems, or vision loss. These signs may point to a serious medical issue. We offer same-day and virtual care in the Bay Area for fast access to expert migraine support.
Who to Talk to About Migraine Treatment
Start with your primary care doctor. If symptoms stay or get worse, see a pain specialist or neurologist. At Recovery Without Walls, we provide full treatment for migraines. We use both medical and whole-person methods. Our double board-certified team will work with your existing providers and tailor a care plan to your needs. Treatment may include medicine, lifestyle coaching, and combined therapies like acupuncture or mindfulness.
Keeping a Headache Diary to Track Patterns
Tracking your symptoms can reveal triggers and help guide your treatment. In a headache diary, note where your pain is located, how long it lasts, and what symptoms occur (like aura, nausea, or sensitivity). Record your sleep, diet, stress levels, and menstrual cycle, as these may influence migraines. Sharing this information with your doctor helps you both understand what’s happening and choose the best treatment options.
How Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent Migraines
Many people find relief from migraines through healthy routines. Try eating balanced meals, drinking plenty of water, getting 7–8 hours of sleep each night, and exercising regularly. Managing stress with yoga, breathing exercises, or therapy can also help. At Recovery Without Walls, we provide custom wellness plans and support to reduce migraine frequency and improve quality of life.
Cancer Pain & Neuropathic Pain
Understanding Cancer-Related Pain
Cancer pain can come from the disease itself or as a result of its treatment. It may be short-term or ongoing, and it can affect your ability to function in everyday life. Managing this pain is essential for healing. At Recovery Without Walls, we give kind, combined care for cancer pain. We use safe and proven treatments.
Types of Pain Experienced by People With Cancer
Pain in cancer patients can be categorized by duration and cause. Acute pain is short-term, often related to surgery. Chronic pain lasts longer and may come from tumor growth or nerve damage. Breakthrough pain is a sudden flare-up that occurs despite medication.
Other types include:
- bone pain
- soft tissue pain
- visceral pain
- phantom pain
- referred pain
Each type requires a unique treatment approach.
Common Causes of Cancer-Related Pain
Cancer can cause pain by pressing on nerves or organs. Treatments like chemotherapy or surgery may also lead to inflammation or nerve damage. Even simple medical procedures can result in short-term discomfort. Our clinic uses personalized care plans that combine pain relief and holistic support to help you manage and reduce pain.
What Is Neuropathic Pain and How It’s Treated
Neuropathic pain happens when nerves are damaged or misfire. It often causes burning, stabbing, or electric feelings. It can be caused by chemotherapy, surgery, or conditions like diabetes. We treat this pain with buprenorphine (when appropriate), topical treatments, non-opioid drugs, and combined methods like physical therapy and acupuncture. Our approach helps restore function and relieve discomfort.
How Buprenorphine Can Help With Nerve and Cancer Pain
Buprenorphine is a partial opioid that provides strong pain relief without many of the risks of full opioids. It’s safer for medically complex patients, has a lower risk of dependence, and can help improve sleep and mood. Our founder, Dr. Howard Kornfeld, is a pioneer in using buprenorphine for pain. This approach is especially helpful for people who haven’t responded well to other treatments.
What to Do if Your Current Pain Treatment Isn’t Working
If your current medications aren’t helping, or if they’re causing side effects, it’s time for a fresh look. Our team can review your plan. We find pain causes and offer options that lower use of addictive drugs. We focus on total well-being with support that includes nutrition, therapy, and functional medicine.
How Mental Health Affects Your Pain Experience
Pain and emotions are deeply connected. Anxiety and depression can increase your sense of pain and make it harder to cope. We offer mental health support and combined therapies to help you manage pain's physical and emotional parts. You don’t have to face this alone—our care team is here to guide you.
At-Home Tips for Managing Pain
Simple strategies can improve your comfort at home. Try light exercise, hot/cold packs, and relaxation techniques like meditation. Use a journal to track your symptoms and note what helps or makes pain worse. Alternate between hard and easy tasks to conserve energy, and prioritize sleep with a calming bedtime routine.
When to Contact a Pain Specialist
Reach out if your pain worsens, disrupts your sleep, or makes daily tasks difficult. If you experience new symptoms like fever, dizziness, or numbness, call your provider. We offer same-day and virtual appointments for quick support. Our team will help adjust your plan so you can feel more in control.
Why Choose Recovery Without Walls for Pain Care
We specialize in pain relief that is both effective and sustainable. Our clinic uses non-addictive treatments like buprenorphine. We create personal care plans and use combined therapies. Whether you have cancer pain, nerve pain, or a complex condition, we design your care for your physical and emotional needs.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
What to Know About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
CRPS is a chronic condition that usually affects a limb after injury or surgery. It causes intense, often burning pain, and may also involve swelling, skin changes, or extreme sensitivity to touch or cold. If untreated, CRPS can lead to muscle loss or permanent joint problems. Recovery Without Walls offers advanced and holistic care designed to ease symptoms and promote healing.
Common Symptoms of CRPS
Signs of CRPS include ongoing pain, swelling, skin discoloration, temperature changes, and trouble moving the affected limb. You may also notice abnormal nail or hair growth and muscle spasms. These symptoms can worsen over time, so early diagnosis is key. If you notice changes like these, contact our clinic for an evaluation.
Causes and Types of CRPS
CRPS can develop after a fracture, surgery, or even a mild injury. Type 1 occurs without clear nerve damage, while Type 2 involves a known nerve injury. Researchers think the condition comes from a communication problem between the nervous and immune systems. Not everyone with an injury will develop CRPS, but if symptoms arise, early treatment is essential.
When to Seek Help for CRPS
If you have persistent, severe pain in a limb—especially pain that worsens with touch or movement—don’t wait to seek help. Other warning signs include temperature changes and abnormal skin appearance. Our clinic offers early treatment plans and proven care. We help manage symptoms and avoid long-term problems.
How We Treat CRPS at Recovery Without Walls
We use a mix of medical and holistic therapies to address CRPS. Buprenorphine may be appropriate to relieve your pain without the addiction risk of traditional opioids. Our treatment plans for CRPS may also include physical therapy, acupuncture, nutrition, and mental health care. We take a full-body approach to reduce pain and support your recovery.
Why Buprenorphine Is a Safer Option for Pain
Buprenorphine works differently from other opioids. It has a lower risk of overdose and is less likely to cause dependency. It’s effective for chronic, treatment-resistant pain like CRPS. Our clinic leads the nation in using buprenorphine for pain. We tailor treatment to your needs and medical history.
Can CRPS Go Away Without Treatment?
In some cases, CRPS symptoms may improve with time—especially if treated early. But for many people, symptoms persist or get worse without proper care. Delaying treatment increases the risk of permanent damage. Our team offers proactive care to help reduce pain, restore function, and improve your quality of life.
Preventing CRPS From Spreading After Injury or Surgery
While preventing CRPS from spreading isn’t always possible, some steps may reduce your risk. Taking vitamin C after a fracture and beginning gentle movement after surgery can help. If you’re recovering from an injury and concerned about CRPS, we can create a preventive care plan tailored to your situation.
What Sets Recovery Without Walls Apart
Our clinic takes a modern, integrative approach to treating chronic pain. We avoid heavy use of traditional opioids. We focus on personal care using functional medicine, non-addictive drugs, and trauma-aware support. Our team listens deeply and collaborates across specialties to help you reclaim your life from pain.