Education
- Internship
-
Rush University Medical Center Anesthesiology GME
Chicago, IL
2004
- Medical School
-
Touro University California - College of Osteopathic Medicine
United States
Vallejo, CA
2003
- Residency
-
Rush University Pain Medicine Fellowship
Chicago, IL
2007
- Undergraduate
-
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA
1998
About
Primary Specialties:
Pain Medicine,
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Board Certified),
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Dr. Hoang T. Vu knows that many people suffer from chronic pain due to a variety of reasons. “For a long time, they endured the pain not knowing there are options that can help alleviate their mental anguish,” he said. “I was drawn to the field of pain management knowing that I can help these patients and improve their lives. Seeing the smiles and changes in their face when their pain improves is the most satisfying part of this field.”
Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of California, Riverside, Dr. Vu earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the California-based Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine. After completing his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, he concluded a fellowship focusing on interventional spine and pain at the Lags Spine and Sports Care Medical Center in California.
Working as a staff physician in Wisconsin, Oregon and Florida, Dr. Vu brings more than 10 years experience in the pain management field to his work at the National Spine and Pain Centers. “There is a good environment that makes (my work) joyful,” he said.
When putting together an individual treatment plan for each patient, Dr. Vu notes medication management is one aspect of the overall treatment plan. “It is an important part that should not have a bad connotation as it plays a vital role,” he said. “Saying that, it is only one part of pain management. It should also include interventional procedures, manual therapy, surgical options, behavioral and psychological therapy.”
In his work, Dr. Vu practices a patient centered care approach. “Every patient is different and along with that are different needs and philosophy toward medicine,” he said. “It is our role and responsibility to recognize each patient’s needs and adjust accordingly.”
When not treating patients, Dr. Vu enjoys spending time with his children. “It may be joking with them, playing tricks on their mommy or just playing video games,” he said.
