Holyoke Medical Center Pain Management Center

“I saw Dr. Syed M. Khurram Owais for pain management related to degenerative disc disease after already seeing three doctors who would not order an MRI. I was in severe pain and felt strongly that something more was going on. During the appointment, I asked for an MRI and even stated I was willing to pay out of pocket just to better understand the source of my pain. Dr. Owais responded, “What do we need an MRI for if we already know the problem,” which felt extremely dismissive. Throughout the visit I did not feel heard, and my concerns about the severity of my pain were not taken seriously. The recommendation was six weeks of physical therapy with a follow-up afterward. I left the appointment in tears and called my partner because I felt so dismissed while still in significant pain. After five weeks of PT, my symptoms worsened and I was discharged. I then reconnected with my PCP, Dr. Bucknor, who truly listened and connected me with Dr. Chilson. That experience was completely different. Dr. Chilson ordered an MRI right away, adjusted my medication, and took my pain seriously. My Lumbar Spine MRI revealed the following: L5-S1: Disc bulge causing severe compression of the spinal cord and abutment of the left S1 nerve root. L4-L5: Posterior disc osteophyte complex causing severe narrowing of the subarticular recess, contacting the traversing L5 nerve roots and resulting in mild bilateral foraminal narrowing. Other findings: Two additional smaller disc bulges were also identified. In total, four bulging discs were discovered in my lumbar spine, with two impacting my nerves and spinal cord — confirming that the level of pain I was experiencing had a very real medical cause. My hope in writing this review is that future patients are listened to by Dr. Owais and that their concerns are taken seriously. I also hope he approaches patients with more compassion and avoids being dismissive when someone is clearly in significant pain.”

“I had a good experience with both Dr and staff...I just didn't feel good or any better after the procedure was over with and I'm hoping that they find a way to releave my condition in the near future.”

“If I could give this doctor a zero, I would. I've messaged her on her portal, but with no response. It's been over a week. She was supposed to help me with pain - in my knee; bone-on-on with a noninvasive procedure. At this time, I cannot get a knee replacement. However, she is allowing me to be in excruciating pain. Obviously, she doesn't care about me. I wonder why?!! Is it in fact, my hue that is a deterrent for her treating me with respect??? I do wonder! If you are a person who looks like me, find another pain management doctor.”

“I am a new patient to the pain clinic and other than waiting longer than normal for an appointment, I had a very thorough appointment with the nurse practitioner Olga Buchachiy. She was extremely helpful and went through all my information and all my labs. She informed me of information that I was not aware of previously. She worked hard to make referrals and get me an appointment for a procedure in a very timely manner. I would highly recommend seeing these specialists.”