About Us
We combine evidence-based medicine, neuroscience, and functional wellness to address the root drivers of pain - neurological, hormonal, muscular, and microbiome.
our mission is bold:
To transform how chronic pain is treated by moving beyond symptom-masking into whole-person healing.
Differentiators
What Makes TakeBack Different
TakeBack is where wellness meets science. Where the resilience code of the book becomes a living, breathing program of care. Where pain no longer defines the story – but recovery does.
Evidence-Based & Non-Opioid
Grounded in neuroscience, hormone science, and whole person care — always non-opioid and science-backed.
Layered Protocols
We don’t chase symptoms. We address the whole system: brain, hormones, muscles, immunity, and microbiome.
Telehealth Accessibility
100% virtual care that meets patients where they are — private, convenient, and affordable.
Education + Empowerment
From the authors of Mastering Chronic Pain — we combine treatment with tools, coaching, and resources that help patients become partners in their own healing journey.
founders story
Chronic pain can steal more than comfort - it can steal identity, joy, and connection.
In Mastering Chronic Pain, Dr. Sahar Swidan and Dr. Matthew Bennett told stories like Sarah’s: a vibrant woman whose pain shrank her world until even her passions felt out of reach. But they also showed that healing is possible when we stop asking “How do we fight pain?” and start asking “How do we rebuild life alongside it?”
The book became a roadmap for thousands. Through NoceViva, they created courses and tools to spread resilience science worldwide. But patients and caregivers kept asking for more: “Can you help me apply this in my own life? Can I get medical guidance along with the education?”
TakeBack is the answer. It’s the clinical extension of their vision - where the principles of the book and course come alive in real, personalized care.
With Medical Advisor Dr. Sajad Zalzala, TakeBack bridges world-class research with hands-on telehealth delivery, making comprehensive chronic pain programs accessible from the comfort of home.
Founder & Medical Advisor Bios
PharmD, BCPS, FCCP – Clinical Pharmacist, Educator, Pain & Hormone Science Pioneer
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Dr. Sahar Swidan is a world-renowned clinical pharmacist, educator, and visionary in integrative pain management and neuroendocrine health. As President and CEO of NeuroPharm, she has trained thousands of clinicians around the globe in the science — and art — of healing.
With a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and postdoctoral fellowship in Biopharmaceutics and Gastroenterology from the University of Michigan, Dr. Swidan is also board-certified and an advanced fellow in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. She has served on faculty at the University of Michigan, George Washington University School of Medicine, and Wayne State University College of Pharmacy.
She is co-editor of Advanced Therapeutics in Pain Medicine and a contributor to Metabolic Therapies in Orthopedics. Internationally sought after for her expertise, Dr. Swidan’s mission is to radically shift how we think about pain, aging, and the power of cellular restoration.
MD, FAAOS, ABAARM, FAAMM – Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, Nutrition Scientist, Functional Medicine Expert
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Dr. Matthew Bennett is an orthopedic spine surgeon and functional medicine expert who has dedicated his career to helping individuals overcome chronic pain and unlock their highest potential.
After earning his degree in Nutritional Sciences from Cornell University, he completed fellowship training at the renowned Texas Back Institute. He holds dual board certifications in orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine.
Dr. Bennett is the co-editor of Advanced Therapeutics in Pain Medicine and has authored multiple book chapters and peer-reviewed research articles on orthopedics, spine care, and pain medicine. Drawing from both cutting-edge science and personal experience with recovery, he has pioneered a new model of pain care — one that fuses medicine, movement, and mindset.
Through his work, Dr. Bennett empowers patients to break free from the limitations of chronic pain, rebuild resilience, and reclaim lives of clarity and performance.
MD – Family Physician, Longevity & Functional Medicine Specialist, Telehealth Innovator
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Dr. Sajad Zalzala is a board-certified family physician with unique expertise at the intersection of functional medicine, chronic pain, and longevity science.
As a clinical entrepreneur, Dr. Z has helped thousands of patients through innovative telehealth platforms, pioneering new approaches to personalized care. His work spans from chronic pain management to age-related disease prevention, with a focus on translating emerging science into practical, accessible care models.
As Medical Advisor to TakeBack Health, Dr. Z bridges research-driven protocols with real-world patient care. His mission is to create systems that empower patients to take charge of their health, combining the best of modern medicine with holistic, whole-person strategies.
ANSWERS
FAQ's
Eligibility & Enrollment
Q: Who is eligible to join TakeBack Health?
A: Adults 18 and older with chronic pain conditions where we offer services, such as post-herpetic neuralgia and vulvodynia- more to be added soon. Patients must reside in the United States (some state restrictions may apply – not currently offered in Alabama or Arkansas)
Q: Do I need a referral from my doctor?
A: No referral is required. Patients can self-enroll by completing our intake form and eligibility quiz.
Q: Can I join if I already see another doctor or specialist?
A: Yes. TakeBack is designed to complement existing care, not replace it. We encourage collaboration with your other providers.
Q: Can caregivers enroll on behalf of a patient?
A: Caregivers may help a patient complete intake forms, but telehealth visits must be conducted with the patient present.
Programs & Care Model
Q: What conditions do you treat?
A: Currently, we offer structured programs for post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) and vulvodynia migraine. Additional chronic pain programs are under development.
Q: What makes TakeBack different from other pain clinics?
A: We use layered, non-opioid protocols that address neurological, hormonal, muscular, and microbiome contributors to pain. Our approach combines evidence-informed medicine with functional wellness and resilience training, all delivered via telehealth.
Q: What happens after I enroll?
A: 1) You complete a secure online intake. 2) A licensed prescriber reviews your intake 3) You receive a personalized care plan, which may include prescription therapies, supplements, lifestyle recommendations, and optional testing. 4) We will ask you to check-in with us at regular intervals, with adjustments made as needed.
Q: Will I get a prescription?
A: Only if clinically appropriate. Our providers prescribe non-opioid, non-controlled, evidence-based treatments such as compounded topical creams or low-dose naltrexone (LDN), depending on your need
Q: Do you provide physical therapy or counseling directly?
A: We provide referrals to trusted pelvic floor therapists, cognitive behavioral therapy providers, or other specialists when indicated.
Q: How long does a program last?
A: Initial programs generally last 12 weeks, with an option to transition into ongoing maintenance care. (Need confirmation: are maintenance tracks built in yet?)
Telehealth Process
Q: How do visits take place?
A: Most TakeBack visits and intake reviews take place completely online through our secure, HIPAA-compliant system. Video consultations are provided when required by state regulations or if a patient prefers or requests. All visits are conducted virtually via secure, HIPAA-compliant medical records system. Patients receive a link before each session.
Q: How do I prepare for my telehealth appointment?
A: Most patient care is completed online through our portal. When a video consultation is needed or requested, Yyou’ll need a device with internet, camera, and microphone. Have your medication list, relevant labs, and a quiet private space ready.
Q: What if I miss or need to reschedule an appointment?
A: If you have been asked to schedule a video consultation, Yyou can reschedule through our patient portal or by contacting our support team. Missed visits may be subject to cancellation fees. (Need confirmation: policy details?)
Q: How do I communicate with my provider between consultations visits?
A: Patients can message through the secure portal for non-urgent questions. Urgent or emergency issues should be directed to local care or 911.
Payments & Insurance
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: TakeBack is currently a cash self-pay service. and does not bill insurance. We do accept HSA and FSA cards, and we can provide simple letters for HSA/FSA reimbursement if required. However, we cannot provide insurance billing support or superbills due to stringent regulations.We provide itemized receipts (superbills) that patients may submit to their insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement. (Need confirmation: superbills provided automatically or on request?)
Q: How much do programs cost?
A: Program pricing will be listed on the website. Each program includes telehealth visits, care planning, and access to patient education resources. We strive to keep our programs accessible and affordable.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept all major credit/debit cards and HSA/FSA cards.
Q: Do you offer refunds?
A: Refunds are generally not provided once services are rendered. Please see our Refund Policy for details. (Need confirmation: final policy terms?)
Clinical & Safety
Q: Are TakeBack programs safe?
A: Yes. Our programs were designed by experts in chronic pain with safety in mind. They use evidence-based, non-opioid treatments and are overseen by licensed medical professionals. Patients are screened before starting, and results may vary. All treatments are evidence-based, non-opioid, and overseen by licensed medical professionals. Patients are screened for red flags before beginning any program.
Q: Do you prescribe opioids?
A: No. Our model is strictly non-opioid.
Q: What if I experience side effects?
A: Contact your TakeBack provider through the portal. If severe or urgent, seek immediate in-person medical care or call 911.
Q: Are my records private?
A: Yes. All patient data is encrypted and stored in compliance with HIPAA and other applicable telehealth privacy regulations.
Book, Course & Resources
Q: What’s the difference between NoceViva and TakeBack Health?
A: NoceViva offers educational resources, including the Mastering Chronic Pain book and online course. TakeBack Health is the clinical extension of this vision, where the principles are put into practice through medical care.
Q: Should I read the book before joining TakeBack?
A: Not required — but many patients find the book and course a helpful foundation. They can also be used as standalone resources if you’re not ready to begin a program.
Logistics & Practicalities
Q: Where are your providers located?
A: All visits are virtual, but providers are licensed to practice in most States (not currently offered in Alabama or Arkansas)
Q: Can I join from outside the US?
A: Not at this time. TakeBack services are currently available only to patients located in the United States.
Q: What technology do I need?
A: A computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera and internet connection.
Q: Do you ship medications or supplements?
A: Yes. Partner pharmacies will ship compounded medications and supplements directly to your home.
Q: Do you provide emergency care?
A: No. TakeBack is not designed for emergencies. If you are experiencing severe or life-threatening symptoms, call 911 immediately.
Program Outcomes & Next Steps
Q: How soon will I feel better?
A: Many patients notice improvement within weeks, but results vary. Some may take longer, depending on history and condition complexity.
Q: What happens when my initial program ends?
A: Patients may transition to a maintenance plan for continued support, or graduate if goals are met. (Need confirmation: what “maintenance” looks like in TakeBack’s model?)
Q: Can my progress be measured?
A: Yes. We use various patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and provider assessments to track pain reduction, function, and quality of life.
1 in 4 Americans live with chronic pain.
Over 85 Million Americans report having chronic pain.
Layered, evidence-based programs
We address the root drivers of pain – so you can live life on your terms.