Living with Chronic Pain Program

September is Pain Awareness Month
by Carla Jolley, ARNP, MN, AOCN, CHPN

It is estimated that one in three Americans, over 50 million, suffer from chronic pain or recurrent pain. Chronic pain has been called the “silent epidemic” because of the personal and economic implications on health and the work place.

Chronic pain can be the consequence of an injury or trauma, a chronic disease such as diabetes or fibromyalgia, or come with the changes of aging such as osteoarthritis. No matter its source, it brings frustrations and loss to the lives of those experiencing it. Some people with chronic pain lose the ability to work, or become unable to tolerate walking or sitting, or to be independent in the smallest of tasks. Some people with chronic pain are just working through or putting up with the pain. Others are also dealing with the fatigue, discomfort, and emotional fallout of depression and/or irritability.

Medical research is just starting to understand some of the complex contributing factors to chronic pain. Right now there is no black and white answer, no magic pill, or one single therapy that can ‘fix’ most chronic pain. The goal is how best to manage an ongoing condition to improve or enhance quality of life. Chronic pain management may include the use of medications, use of rehabilitative and complementary therapies as well as the time and commitment to find what combination will work best for each individual.

In October, Whidbey General Hospital will be offering a “Living with Chronic Pain” program. It’s an eight week program in a supportive environment with other participants who are dealing with similar issues and concerns. There is some specific criteria for those wishing to participate so if you would like more information, contact Carla Jolley at 678-7605 or 321-6659.

Three very helpful national websites on this subject are available through the internet. These are; the American Pain Foundation (www.painfoundation.org), the American Chronic Pain Association (www.acpa.org), and the National Pain Foundation (www.NationalPainFoundation.org