Chronic Pain

What is
Chronic pain

  • Chronic pain affects at least 10 percent of the world`s population.
  • Chronic pain affects 1 in 5 Australians.
  • Chronic pain affects 1 in 3 Australians over 65 years of age.

Chronic pain/persistent pain/long term pain refers to pain persisting for longer than 3 months. 

Acute pain is short term e.g. sprained ankle, where bruising & swelling settles.

Persistent pain occurs when the nervous system `ramps up` to `protect`, & becomes more sensitive.

The brain produces pain, & the nervous system becomes more sensitive.

This includes:

  • Fibromyalgia
    • Arthritis of various types
      • Joint pain
        • Chronic fatigue
          • Stiffness & movement problems eg post joint replacement

Pain is influenced by many factors
Factors which ramp up pain include:

Stress, worry, anxiety

Beliefs

Fear about the future

Emotions

Fear of moving – `freeze`

Poor sleep

Weak muscles, stiff joints.

Limited & awkward movements

Factors which can help dampen pain/’turn down the dial‘

  • Movement eg walking, swimming
  • Pacing & graded activity – building up ability
  • Improved strength & flexibility
  • Stress management
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Meditation & Mindfulness techniques
  • Improved sleep
  • Understanding pain – how thoughts & feelings can affect pain
  • Understanding the body`s protective `flight/fright/freeze responses & ways to deal with this response
  • Eating well
  • Laughter & fun activities

Service information.

  • Individual consultations and sessions are 60-90 minutes.
  • Individual assessment & consultation required prior to Yoga exercises.
  • Home visits or zoom sessions
  • Available day or evening on request
  • Locations: Melbourne, Geelong, Torquay & Mornington Peninsula