Dr. Joseph V. Pergolizzi Jr., MD is an internationally renowned perioperative and pain specialist, well-versed in multiple issues confronting patients and caregivers in acute and chronic pain. He runs a highly-regarded pain center in Naples, Florida; is chairman of the Abstract and Poster Selection Committee for PAINWeek; and is a member of the CHANGE PAIN Board. Additionally he has been awarded the American Medical Association Physician Recognition Award with Commendation.

Early in Pergolizzi’s career, he was concerned that pain patients “had no voice” and were unnecessarily suffering in silence, worried about the side effects of common pain treatment options.

Pergolizzi has since devoted his time, working tirelessly, to overcome that fear and get his patients on the road to recovery by offering a variety of treatment options, including holistic approaches, best suited to each individual’s needs. Pergolizzi has been active during the COVID-19 crisis to address chronic pain issues reported by coronavirus patients and is co-author on the published study, “Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on chronic pain management: Looking for the best way to deliver care.”

As a physician, inventor, research scientist and advocate for pain patients, Pergolizzi has leveraged his medical, regulatory and business acumen to build a strong track record of success within the healthcare industry.

Additionally, he works with Healthy Directions as an adviser and educator on natural solutions for pain management. Pergolizzi has authored more than 350 peer-reviewed articles, abstracts, platform presentations, and book chapters. He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from St. John’s University and his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine with the high honors. He completed his residency in anesthesia at Georgetown University School of Medicine and a clinical research fellowship in the Department of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Pergolizzi’s research interests focus on acute and chronic pain in adults with a particular focus on pain in older populations.