No matter the type of treatment plan we design to manage your pain, self-management is critical. This means that you play an active role in dealing with your condition, working with your health care providers to achieve the best outcomes.

Movement: In most circumstances we will encourage you to move more, even if it hurts, as hurt doesn’t have to mean any damage is occurring. Flare-ups in pain will happen and can be managed by pacing (planned rest breaks) and setting realistic functional goals. Setting small daily achievable goals i.e. walking to front gate, retrieving the mail from mailbox, walking around the block or doing some housework are great examples. Over time, your body and nervous system can adjust so that you are gradually able to increase how much you do.

Thoughts and feelings: It is well known that our thoughts and feelings influence our experience of pain. Negative input arises from unpleasant past experiences (memories), fear, worry, anger and depression – all of which can magnify pain. Conversely, a positive attitude, finding joy, mindfulness and learning how to regain some control can all help to reduce the experience of pain. Sometimes we may recommend psychological input or counselling to help you discover more strategies to manage your thoughts and feelings, and thus, your pain.

Lifestyle: Pain levels can be affected by lifestyle choices. Even little changes can make a difference, such as reducing processed foods in your diet, improving sleep habits and sitting less. We assist you to look holistically at the factors that may be contributing to your pain and set realistic goals to change.

Knowledge: We encourage you to learn as much as you can about your condition, about pain, and about how you can influence your experience. If you would like more information relating to any procedures you are considering, please feel free to get in touch.