A skill-oriented course teaching various techniques and providing better resources to manage chronic pain.

The purpose of the chronic pain course is to help manage chronic pain and take the lead in managing self-help, as well as being able to find and access available resources.

1. Science of pain. What is pain?

• Learning about Pain.
• Acute Pain vs Chronic Pain.
• Responses to Chronic Pain.
• Review of available online resources and literature.

2. Pain and self-management:

• What is self-management?
• Problem-Solving.
• Making Decisions.
• Taking Action.
• Creating and Carrying Out Your Action Plan.
• Rewarding Yourself.

3. Availability of Information and Resources:

• Finding Resources.
• Referral Services available in the community.
• Libraries.
• The Internet, searching for credible information.
• Social Network Sites.
• Non-profit organizations and Societies.
• Books.

4. Identifying Personal Problems and Symptoms:

• Common Symptoms.
• Calendar Journaling.
• Tools for Managing different types of pain.
• Pain Diary.
• Breathing.
• Fatigue.
• Sleep.
• Depression.
• Anger.
• Stress and Anxiety.
• Memory.
• Vocational Concerns.

5. Mindfulness Techniques for Managing Pain:

• Relaxation Techniques.
• Researching the Meditation Techniques on YouTube or Online Application
• Distraction.
• Positive Attitude.
• Visualization.
• Spirituality.
• Additional Resources.

6. Tracking and Balancing Activity and Rest:

• Activity review.
• Finding a balance.
• Daily Scheduling techniques.
• Using provided activity and rest diary.

7. A Role of Physical Activity in Pain Management:

• Overview of reasons activities are important for pain.
• Learning about different types of exercise.
• Choosing an appropriate Exercise Program.
• Make a Plan.
• Review of available Local Programs with support.

8. Healthy Eating and Weight Management:

• Identify concerns.
• Identify Goals.
• Action Planning for making changes.
• Search for community resources.

9. Conflict resolution and clear communication with family, friends, and colleagues.

10. Dealing with the Health Care System, attending numerous appointments, and keeping track of health records and appointment history.

11. Summarizing the sessions. The client will make a long-term plan and clearly understand their personal toolbox resources for pain management.

The information for this Individual Chronic Pain Program is adapted from the following resources:

• Canadian Pain Society: https://www.painbc.ca/canadian-pain-society
• Chronic Pain Association of Canada: www.chronicanada.com
• Diabetes Canada-Weight Management: https://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/healthy-living-resources/weight-management
• Diabetes Canada: www.diabetes.ca
• Health Canada Food Guide: www.healthcanada.gc.ca
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: www.choosemyplate.gov
• American Chronic Pain Association: www.thecpa.org
• Sit and Be Fit: www.sitandbefit.org
• Physical activity guidelines: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
• Canadian Psychological Association: www.cpa.ca

Disclaimer:
This course does not replace any medical advice. All medical and professional care has to be continued as prescribed to the client. Common sense has to be used in all decisions regarding self-care.