As we talked about in the last post, learning about pain is an important part of fighting it. The more we know about what it is we’re trying to manage and/or get rid of, the more successful we will be.
Chronic pain affects more people in America than diabetes, cancer and heart disease combined. Based on the latest calculations, 100 million Americans are in pain daily. That is about 1 of every 3-4 people! This translates into an estimated annual cost of more than $630 billion spent on medical care and lost productivity. And what about the personal costs – loss of function and quality of life? *
In its 2011 report, the Institute of Medicine emphasized the need for better understanding, assessment and management of pain, with an eye on prevention of chronicity and on promotion of patient self-management of pain. The call went out to train not only healthcare providers more thoroughly in the complex biological and psychosocial aspects of pain, but also to educate the public at large, and especially the patients.*
We already established that good science supports getting the brain involved in this battle against pain. (See the previous post here: http://www.vtsphysicaltherapy.com/did-you-know-blog/your-brain-is-ready-to-fight-pain). Throughout this month, I will post information to help you feel more empowered in your pursuit of a life that is not hampered by it.
So, let’s get started with this 5-minute video produced by some kindred spirits from Down Under.
Chronic pain affects more people in America than diabetes, cancer and heart disease combined. Based on the latest calculations, 100 million Americans are in pain daily. That is about 1 of every 3-4 people! This translates into an estimated annual cost of more than $630 billion spent on medical care and lost productivity. And what about the personal costs – loss of function and quality of life? *
In its 2011 report, the Institute of Medicine emphasized the need for better understanding, assessment and management of pain, with an eye on prevention of chronicity and on promotion of patient self-management of pain. The call went out to train not only healthcare providers more thoroughly in the complex biological and psychosocial aspects of pain, but also to educate the public at large, and especially the patients.*
We already established that good science supports getting the brain involved in this battle against pain. (See the previous post here: http://www.vtsphysicaltherapy.com/did-you-know-blog/your-brain-is-ready-to-fight-pain). Throughout this month, I will post information to help you feel more empowered in your pursuit of a life that is not hampered by it.
So, let’s get started with this 5-minute video produced by some kindred spirits from Down Under.
What is one thing you can try this week to help you begin your journey toward a healthier you? I would love to read your comments below. Do you have any questions you would like to address to me privately? Click here (http://www.vtsphysicaltherapy.com/contact.html) to send a private message.
* Available at: http://www.iom.edu/~/media/Files/Report Files/2011/Relieving-Pain-in-America-A-Blueprint-for-Transforming-Prevention-Care-Education-Research/Pain Research 2011 Report Brief.
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