Pain Management

Occupational therapists are experts at enabling engagement in the activities that make your life meaningful – that includes everything from completing your morning self-care routine to working or volunteering. An occupational therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to better understand how pain impacts your ability to function and engage in meaningful activities. With an overarching focus on occupational engagement, an occupational therapist will work with you to create client-centered, occupation-based goals and provide a diverse range of strategies for improved pain management. Occupational therapists are trained to consider the person as a whole, including the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects unique to the person. 

Occupational therapy interventions to manage pain can include: 

Pain Education 

Pain is complex, and it can be even more challenging to manage without a basic understanding of how pain is produced in the body. An occupational therapist will provide pain education to help you better understand what is happening in your body, when it is safe to move through the pain, and how to calm your nervous system to better manage your pain and improve your function. By learning about the basics of pain and pain management, you will better understand how to manage your pain and how to apply what you’ve learned to face new challenges. 

Ergonomic Assessment and environmental modifications 

Ergonomic assessments help determine potential factors in a person’s environment that can be modified to reduce pain, promote musculoskeletal health, and reduce unnecessary stress on the body. Environmental adaptations can be made along with adaptive aids that alter the task or activity to better match the individual’s abilities. 

Evidence-based strategies for relaxation and stress management 

The impact of stress on the experience of pain is well-documented, which is why occupational therapists often provide education and training on the use of relaxation and stress management strategies. Such interventions might include guided mental imagery, mindfulness, and the provision of sleep hygiene education. 

Learn new ways to live your life despite pain 

It can be challenging to learn new ways to live your life with pain, but with the help of an occupational therapist, you will feel supported through the process of learning how to re-engage in the activities that make your life meaningful. Ultimately, you are the expert on yourself; an occupational therapist will support you to learn self-management techniques that can be applied to new challenges as they arise. 

Alongside occupational therapists, our rehabilitation assistants are available to provide 1:1 support to help you practice the strategies outlined by your occupational therapist.

Please contact us at info@infinityhealth.ca for more information.