Definition of Pain
Pain is “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with, actual or potential tissue damage”. It is not always a negative phenomenon; in fact, pain is necessary as it functions as an alarm system, alerting us to potential harm or injury.
Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain and Prevalence
By definition, “chronic” refers to pain experienced in the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and sometimes nerves that persist for more than 3 months. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 20–33% of the world’s population, which equates to approximately 1.75 billion people globally, suffers from some form of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Specifically, neck and low back pain are not only among the most prevalent but also particularly common complaints in the workplace setting. Furthermore, chronic low back pain is the primary contributor to disability worldwide. It is important for businesses to understand that managing chronic pain requires a more complex and specialised approach compared to managing acute (short-term) pain.
Workplace Challenges Due to Pain
In today’s work environment, numerous professionals are exposed to conditions that can lead to musculoskeletal issues. Poor posture, repetitive motions, and inadequate ergonomic practices contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. When employees neglect these underlying causes, they risk not only worsening their pain but also advancing towards disability. This situation can result in reduced productivity, higher absenteeism, and potentially job loss. Pain in the workplace can diminish efficiency, affect mental health, lead to more absenteeism, increase the risk of further injuries, and escalate healthcare costs.
However, these challenges do not only affect the workers but also have broad implications for the business. Increased sick leaves and reduced productivity pose a threat to the company’s efficiency. Additionally, the medical costs for treating and rehabilitating the employees can be significant. Furthermore, not managing chronic pain can lead to high staff turnover rates, increasing expenses for retraining and familiarising new employees.
The Value of a Pain Management Workshop
Investing in training and assessment programs for chronic pain management is a vital decision to enhance business efficiency, cut medical costs, and strengthen employees’ morale. Participating in a 4-week Chronic Pain Management course series, will offer essential concepts and tools for managing Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain. Each week is centred on a unique theme, providing multiple advantages.
Week 1: Understanding Pain
Modern understanding of pain allows for better management. Participants will develop a more holistic understanding of pain and its mechanisms, and will learn how to influence the factors affecting pain, giving them motivation to take an active role in managing it.
Week 2: Physical Activity and Pacing
Physical exercise significantly affects pain and mobility. By learning about physical exercise and “pacing”, participants can potentially manage their pain better, increase their physical activity, and improve their quality of life.
Week 3: Sleep and Healthy Eating
Sleep and nutrition directly affect Chronic Pain. By improving sleep and adopting healthier dietary habits, participants will be able to manage their pain better, as well as improve their daily functional levels.
Week 4: Stress Management and Preparation for Work
Stress is intimately linked to Chronic Pain. By acquiring and applying effective stress management techniques, individuals can experience a significant reduction in their daily stress levels, enhance their ability to control pain, and develop more proficient skills in managing stress, whether at work or in their personal lives.
