After suffering for 20 years with lower back and knee joint pain; I also have heart disease which sometimes makes things even more difficult. My GP mentioned about a pain management referral.
I have to admit I was rather dubious about joining the meeting online and unsure of how it would work, but I found it to be extremely helpful and would definitely recommend it!
Once I logged into the call online we all gave brief introduction about ourselves, we then discussed pain management techniques with the specialist and also watched a short video. At the end of this we were given an opportunity to chat about our thoughts and feelings collectively as a group. It was nice to hear its not a one fits all approach and everyone has different perspectives of pain, it was great to have a confidential group chat and someone else to sound off to about things, rather than just moaning to loved ones at home.
At the end of the group discussion we were given an opportunity to give points on which we would like to focus on and discuss in further detail with Dr Gallagher, my point was I wished to discuss my medication and review this.
Today gave me the opportunity to discuss my pain and different health concerns in the comfort of my own home at a specific time and form an action plan, I found this much better than having a quick brief GP appointment.
The group meeting being online meant I did not need to get additional time off work, get back and forth to an appointment and it slotted in great with my schedule!
Once again thanks for your help today, it has been great!
Liked the video the idea that chronic pain is definitely agreed that lifestyle changes ie depression anxiety and stress does increase pain so if where all else fails personally as a Lyme disease sufferer some days I plan and it’s my own mind that says leave it till tomorrow that turns into a week and then never so relying on certain relief ie medication your basically feeding your brain into thinking that’s better I’ve found personally set a small goal not huge and just take little steps to get through extra tasks it’s not you physically can’t do it some days it’s a nightmare lack of sleep caused by overthinking and stress I’m sure starts your next day with oh not today but I’m trying my way cutting back on medication and keeping my mind active even reading your not thinking constantly about any form of pain yes it’s frustrating as we all know but if carried on how bad of a deterioration will it be 5 years from now more depression more pills and more relying on medication talking to your GP as a friend can help to guide you into some cases physical therapy or we all fear the words mental health but agreed if your minds in a better place your body will follow love the site
Thank you Darren. I realise that you have been on a journey where you have found healthy ways of managing your pain and mind. You know a lot about your body and illness and what works for your. I liked your advice of setting small goals and steps on difficult days. Hang in there. Morris.