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Eellan Sivanesan, MD

Assistant Professor, Director of Neuromodulation

Institution/Organization

Johns Hopkins University-School of Medicine

Member Since

2018

Country

USA

What do you think is the next big “hot topic” in the pain field?
I am biased by my research and clinical interests, but I think that neuromodulation (particularly electrical stimulation) for pain will be a continued area for growth. As the technology and our understanding of the mechanisms continue to improve, we hope to be able to more selectively stimulate sites within the central and peripheral nervous system that are associated with aberrant pain processing. 

What has been your biggest professional challenge/obstacle thus far, and how did you handle it/overcome it?
Finding the appropriate work/life balance is tough! Overwork may hamper the creativity required for innovation, but deadlines will always exist. It’s also important to take a breath to make sure you are enjoying the journey.

Why did you become an IASP member?/Why are you an IASP member?
I became an IASP member to engage with other pain researchers and clinicians in order to encourage their work and enhance my own. My membership has allowed me to build collaborations with other IASP members internationally, including those involved in my field of interest: neuromodulation. I am able to engage with other members electronically and in person. I particularly enjoy the ability to hear a diverse range of opinions regarding specific pain topics which may be viewed with less variation when limiting opinions to one’s own institution.

What is your favorite member benefit?
I enjoy participation in the special interest groups, Neuromodulation and Neuropathic Pain.
This has allowed closer interaction with IASP members that have shared interests.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies, other pursuits, or hidden talents?
I enjoy hiking with my family (wife and toddler) throughout the Maryland and D.C. region. We were able to continue these activities safely throughout COVID and it is a great way to explore the outdoors and stay healthy!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
See above.

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