WEIRTON — WVU Medicine is expanding its footprint and the services it offers in the Weirton area.

Hospital officials were joined Friday by local business and municipal officials in unveiling the new WVU Medicine Weirton Center for Integrative Pain Management, located at 249 Three Springs Drive at the Three Springs Crossing business complex.

“Our goal is to restore patients’ functionality and restore their quality of life,” explained Dr. Stephanie Le, clinic director of the pain center.

Le had been offering pain management services in the area for the last several years under the banner of Three Rivers Spine and Pain Medicine before joining WVU Medicine.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of the WVU Medicine family,” she said.

The clinic will provide an array of therapies for conditions such as back injuries, arthritis, cancer-related pain, and other chronic pain disorders. It is staffed by physicians with specialized training in pain management focusing on diagnosing and treating acute and chronic pain conditions.

Dr. Ed Nemergut, who has been part of the WVU School of Medicine’s Department of Neuroscience, noted the opportunity for area residents to receive assistance through the clinic’s treatments.

“There’s a real need for treatment for people with chronic and acute pain in the area,” he said. “Partnering with WVU Medicine opens an array of comprehensive care that didn’t exist before.”

He explained, as part of the WVU Medicine system, residents will continue to have access to even more programs and services, not only in Weirton, but in Morgantown and other parts of the state.

The move comes with an investment of more than $150,000 in new equipment, he said.

Among those attending Friday’s ribbon cutting was Weirton Mayor Dean Harris, who presented a certificate of appreciation to the clinic’s staff.

“We’re proud of everything WVU has been doing for the community,” Harris said.

Systemwide, hospital officials note efforts to advance treatment options by combining medical therapies with behavioral health, movement therapy, nutritional counseling, and other, complementary, treatments such as accupuncture, massage and chiropractic care.

Appointments will require a referral, and can be scheduled by calling (304) 919-2077.

Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday.