The Guthrie Clinic Ithaca, NY NANS member since 2018
Dr. Maricela Schnur is driven by the privilege of caring for individuals living with chronic pain, taking the time to understand each person’s experience so she can meaningfully improve their daily life. Her neuromodulation journey began during her fellowship at Mayo Clinic, where she saw firsthand how these therapies can restore independence—an impact that continues to guide her work, especially in rural communities where advanced treatment options are vital. She values the camaraderie and collaboration within the pain field, drawing inspiration from colleagues whose dedication spans decades. A NANS member since 2018, Dr. Schnur contributes to the society through service on the Advocacy and Policy Committee, the Education Committee, and the PNS Guideline Group. Through these roles and her ongoing engagement, she continues to strengthen the neuromodulation community and support colleagues across the country. Areas of expertise: Neuromodulation; Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS); focal neuropathies; low back, thoracic, and neck pain; radiculopathies; peripheral neuropathy; and hospital administration.
Why I enjoy what I do: I am truly lucky to help patients living with chronic pain. I value the time spent getting to know patients and understanding how pain affects their lives, so Ican improve their function and quality of life. I am also continually inspired by my colleagues in pain medicine--their passion, innovation, and sustained commitment to patient care, even decades into practice. How I became interested in neuromodulation: During my fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, I witnessednumerous cases in which neuromodulation enabled patients to reclaim their ability to function in their everyday lives. Those experiences reinforced the importance of developing strong technical and clinical expertise, particularly as I planned to practice in a rural setting where advanced pain management options can be transformative.
Why I am a Member of NANS: The professional relationships I have built through NANS have been trulylife-changing. I value the opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends at the annual meeting and value each time I can connect again.Throughout the year many of the connections I make through my NANS membership reach out for collaboration, career advice, or discussion of complex cases, which underscores the strength of this community.
My favorite book: While I wish I could name something more scholarly, my favorite books remain the Harry Potter series. Words to live by: "Do good."
