Chronic or persistent pain is pain that has continued beyond the typical expected healing times for an injury or illness. This is usually beyond 3 months and is one of the most prevalent and costly health problems for Australians and our healthcare system. 1 in 5 Australians suffer from chronic pain.

The role of a physiotherapist in chronic or persistent pain, is to identify firstly if there are any underlying injuries or reasons that might be limiting your recovery. This might include past experiences such as physical or psychological trauma, mental health issues or poor understanding of any injury and pain. From here, we can introduce treatments such as education and physical activity.

For more entrenched or prolonged pain, sometimes people are better served to have input from a group of allied health and medical professionals. This could include liaising with multiple services in the Townsville community - such as exercise physiology, occupational therapy and pharmacy. In some cases a coordinated multidisciplinary approach is indicated.

A persistent or chronic pain clinic is a multidisciplinary service involving the input of:

• A Pain and Intervention Specialist (Such as Dr Jason Scott from mipain)

• Allied health

• Nursing

• Psychology or mental health services

These clinics often work in a group setting and are available through the Townsville Mater Private Hospital and the Townsville University Hospital.

Mindfulness practice involves becoming aware of your own drivers for chronic pain - including physical, mental and environmental. This includes learning, becoming more open to new ideas, meditation, relaxation and breathing practices. It’s certainly not a one-size-fits-all approach, and not for everyone.

Developing social support networks can be incredibly empowering in managing your chronic or persistent pain. Taking up a new hobby, sport or simply connecting with other people can be an effective way to help you manage your chronic pain.