Unique pain programme helps elderly get back on their feet
Thursday, 19 December 2024
There have been a number of points in Sheila Longo’s life where Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) has reared its painful head. From severely damaging her wrist and lower arm in a canoeing accident in California in 1998, to seriously injuring her leg and ankle in Italy in 2015, CRPS has added delay and more pain to her recovery.
Four years ago, the 80-year-old from Northumberland was officially diagnosed with CRPS at The Walton Centre, where she has been a patient ever since. Sheila worked hard to stay active and manage her condition where possible, but her chronic pain became more and more unbearable, especially when her dog died last May. Talking with her pain specialist at the specialist neurosciences Trust, it was suggested Sheila tries the OASIS programme.
Designed by the hospital’s Pain Management Programme (PMP), OASIS is aimed at older patients who may struggle with other, more intensive programmes offered at the Trust, addresses issues they have with pain, but in conjunction with comorbidities and other factors which may otherwise make traditional pain management difficult to follow.
Sheila said:
“I was delighted that I qualified for this course. The exercises and support I had had previously from the hospital were great, but I was seriously struggling even with everyday life.
“I started the eight-week programme in early September and it covered physiotherapy, occupational therapy and psychological therapy. The pace was excellent, and it was really helpful to meet other people who were in the same chronic pain boat as myself. There was a huge amount of information to absorb, but I really enjoyed it immensely, and feel I have learnt innumerable coping mechanisms in dealing with my chronic condition.”
OASIS is a new initiative by PMP, aiming to cater for a cohort of patients that may otherwise not fit into other pain management courses easily.
Dr Katie Herron is a Consultant Psychologist and co-runs the programme, she said:
“In creating this programme, we found there were fewer opportunities for peer support for older patients, and they are in a different stage of life to younger patients. This work has meant a patient group that was otherwise missing out on useful management techniques are now benefiting. The feedback has been incredible so far, and we’re seeing an increase in interest.
“What’s crucial with this group of patients is adaptability. We make sure that the tasks and skills we give them are manageable, so they can continue to practise them at home and in their local community. It’s honestly one of the most rewarding projects I’ve ever worked on.”
Since finishing the course, Sheila has been more active. She said:
“Now two months on, I have a lot more energy, feel much happier and am engaging with the outside world far more. I have been working in the garden, going to concerts and my WI group, and am back on the Social Committee of our local church.
“I feel very fortunate to have been on the OASIS programme, as it has certainly given me a new lease of life, and now that I have methods to manage my chronic pain, I have decided to befriend it!”
For more information on PMP, visit the Walton Centre website.