Reflective Essay

During my internship at the Montrose Spine and Pain Center, I had the opportunity to explore the medical field in a hands-on environment that solidified my passion for pursuing a career in spine and pain management. I worked under the supervision of the lead doctor and occasionally alongside the physician assistants, meeting patients with diverse issues such as lower back pain radiating into their legs, neck pain, and shoulder pain. One of the most fascinating cases I observed involved a patient with chronic muscle tension who required Botox injections in her chest. It was incredible to see how these treatments could alleviate her pain and improve her quality of life. These experiences introduced me to the intricacies of diagnosing and treating pain, helping me realize just how much this field aligns with my long-term goals.

In addition to shadowing patient consultations, I spent time in the same-day surgery operating room, observing a wide range of procedures. I watched epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, medial branch blocks, nerve ablations, and even a spinal cord stimulator implantation, a fascinating procedure that uses electrical signals to manage pain. Watching these procedures deepened my understanding of how treatments are tailored to address specific types of pain. For example, lower back pain radiating into the legs might be traced to issues with nerves like L3, L4, or L5. Depending on the location of the pain, I learned how to discern which nerves might be affected, a skill that gave me newfound confidence in connecting symptoms to causes.

Outside the operating room, I developed valuable diagnostic skills, such as reading MRIs and X-rays. I was initially intimidated by the complexity of these images, but with guidance from the doctor, I learned to identify key features like spinal abnormalities and nerve compression. Each image became a puzzle, and I found it incredibly rewarding to understand how imaging guides treatment plans. Through these experiences, I gained a better understanding of medical terminology and how it applies to real-world cases, especially in the spine and pain management specialty.

Building on that experience, I also interned at Western Slope Orthopedics, where I was exposed to a broader range of musculoskeletal care. I had the opportunity to sit in on patient consultations involving joint pain, sports injuries, arthritis, and post-operative checkups—typical cases seen in an orthopedic setting. These visits gave me a clearer view of how orthopedic specialists diagnose and treat conditions that affect mobility and quality of life. In the operating room, I observed a total hip replacement and a surgical repair for an AC joint separation. Watching these procedures firsthand allowed me to appreciate the precision and collaboration involved in orthopedic surgery and helped me understand how surgical interventions restore function and relieve pain.

One of the most challenging aspects of both internships was adapting to the steep learning curve. At first, the terminology and procedures were overwhelming, and I struggled to keep up with the fast pace. However, I made it a point to ask questions and take notes after each day. Over time, I began to feel more comfortable and confident in my understanding of the work. By the end of these internships, I could recognize and discuss basic medical concepts, especially in the context of spine, pain, and orthopedic care, with a level of familiarity that surprised me. These experiences taught me the importance of persistence and curiosity when faced with challenges.

Reflecting on my time at both the Montrose Spine and Pain Center and Western Slope Orthopedics, I am grateful for the skills and insights I gained. These internships not only confirmed my desire to specialize in this field but also gave me a strong foundation in understanding patient care and medical practices. They have inspired me to continue building on this knowledge as I pursue my nursing degree and work toward a career in spine and pain management.

Goals I set for myself