Chronic Pain Self Help
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Our Information Event on Chronic Pain is in the Greville Arms on Thursday October 12th at 7pm and speakers include John Lindsay, Chairperson of Chronic Pain Ireland, Pharmacist Eamonn Brady (MPSI) and a person living with long term pain describing their experience and outcomes. The talk is in association with Arthritis Ireland (Westmeath Branch), Chronic Pain Ireland and Whelehans Pharmacy.
Self Help
Pain Management Programme
Pain Management Programme (PMP) is a psychologically-based rehabilitative treatment for people with persistent pain. It is delivered in a group setting by a multidisciplinary team of experienced health care professionals working closely with patients. The main aim is to teach a group of patients with similar problems about pain, how best to cope with it and how to live a more active life. For most people, this treatment reduces the disability and distress caused by persistent pain through teaching physical, psychological and practical techniques to improve quality of life. It differs from other treatments provided in Pain Clinics in that pain relief is not the primary goal, although improvements in pain following participation have been demonstrated.
Physical or Physio-Therapy
Physical therapy covers several different treatment types, which can be beneficial for Chronic Pain, especially pain due to musculoskeletal disorders. A Chartered Physiotherapist can help with manual therapy which helps to increase tissue extensibility and range of movement, thereby decreasing pain. Manual therapy can also help with alignment and joint mechanics issues which can also help alleviate pain.
Therapeutic Exercise – such as hydrotherapy can restore joint movement and flexibility and strengthen and condition muscles to help movement thereby reducing pain.
Patient Education – can support physical therapy in a self-help or home-based manner. Reading and learning about their condition can assist in management of their own pain.
Exercise – Staying active can be the key to improving chronic pain symptoms; Any activity that increases mobility can have not only a positive physical benefit but also an affirming mental health benefit also.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
CBT is a proven “talking therapy”, the primary aim of which is to how to recognise and manage negative thinking or unhelpful beliefs which lead to increased distress. Generally delivered on a “one to one” basis, the participant is taught techniques and strategies to enable them to challenge their thoughts, change their attitude leading to a change in future behaviour. Through regular attendance, confidence builds, leading to positive goal setting. These goals should relate to achieving resumption of activities previously restricted by pain. Learning problem solving strategies, stress reductions techniques will help bring a successful outcome.
I discussed more information on types and causes of Chronic pain in July in the Examiner so if you missed this, my full article is on www.whelehans.ie or check the www.westmeathexaminer.ie
Disclaimer: Information given is general; Please ensure you consult with your healthcare professional before making any changes recommended
For comprehensive and free health advice and information call in to Whelehans, log on to www.whelehans.ie or dial 04493 34591 (Pearse St) or 04493 10266 (Clonmore). Find us on Facebook.