The Difference is FMG

Work Conditioning

Work conditioning addresses the physical issues of flexibility, strength, endurance, coordination, and work/daily task-related function for the global outcome of increased activity tolerance. Despite the name, work conditioning is not only used for return to work and is also used to increase functional abilities and activity tolerance to improve performance of daily tasks.

Work conditioning assists the doctor in determining clear, patient-demonstrated work restrictions. This program also clearly defines to the patient their abilities and limitations.

This type of program includes: progression of functional abilities, extensive education, instruction on ways to overcome barriers such as fear of re-injury/movement and development of active pain coping tools. Work conditioning sessions are typically 2 hours, 2-3x/week but can vary depending on the specific patient. 

Work Conditioning is the next step for patients who has trialed physical therapy/chiropractic care and was unable to make significant progress or has not yet been able to meet the goals of return to work or independence in daily activities. Consider requesting a work conditioning program at FMG for your patient today!

Spinal Cord Stimulator Evaluations

There are multiple psychological and social factors that can impact the effectiveness of spinal cord stimulation. These factors include psychological disorders, poor social support and history of non-compliance regarding treatment.  A thorough psychological evaluation can help mitigate risk factors and be the basis for a treatment plan to reduce them, thus improving the outcomes of implantation.  Dr. Rizvi approaches psychological screenings from a biopsychosocial perspective. Her pre-surgical spinal cord stimulator evaluations include an in depth diagnostic interview and administration and interpretation of psychological assessments.  A pre-surgical screening can not only save thousands of dollars, but also give patients the best chance at a successful outcome.

Men's Chronic Pain Group

Men are different from women in so many ways. From the way they communicate to their expectations on how to deal with pain. Feinberg Medical Group understands this and is proud to announce the Chronic Pain Men’s Group. This group is facilitated by licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Sarah Rizvi, who has 5 years of experience treating patients in a group setting. The Chronic Pain Men’s Group is a cost effective way for patients to learn new coping skills, gain support and identify how they can improve their functioning and get back into their lives. The group meets once per week for 6 weeks and each session is 1.5 hours.  Enrollment for group is open every 6 weeks and group will consist of 4-10 members. Call Feinberg Medical Group today for more information: 650-223-6400.

Family Support Group

This group is for the family members of past and present patients of the Functional Restoration Program at Feinberg Medical Group. Sessions are facilitated by Sarah Rizvi, PhD and Rachel Feinberg, PT, DPT. Groups are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 3pm-4:30pm. 

Introducing Dr. Rizvi

Dr. Sarah Rizvi is a licensed clinical psychologist and earned her doctorate from Palo Alto University, the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology. Much of her clinical training has focused on group facilitation and she has developed groups in various health settings, including the Palo Alto VA and San Mateo Medical Center. Dr. Rizvi specializes in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and has extensive experience in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and the treatment of depression, anxiety and psychological issues related to chronic health problems and chronic pain. Dr. Rizvi has joined Feinberg Medical Group to further utilize her skills in group psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy and looks forward to working with their dynamic multidisciplinary team.

Her doctoral dissertation and research has focused primarily on the help seeking attitudes of various cultures and Dr. Rizvi integrates multicultural issues into her case conceptualization. Utilizing a patient centered approach, Dr. Rizvi empowers patients and helps them understand their own strengths to improve coping. While offering patients compassion and empathy, she helps patients focus on goals and move forward in treatment.

Also, Dr. Rizvi is an active member of the Santa Clara County Psychological Association and holds the position of co-chair for the Diversity Committee and the Early Career Psychologist Task Force. She is committed to serving the psychological needs of her community and strives to lead other professionals in providing culturally competent resources and intervention, as well as mentor early career psychologists.

Dr. Rizvi works with the patients in the FMG Functional Restoration Program and is also accepting new patients for individual therapy. Please call our office at (650) 223- 6400 to schedule an appointment.