Functional Reactivation Programme
Using the biopsychosocial model integrates the medical and social models to provide a coherent view of different perspectives of health; biological, individual and social (WHO 2002). Therapy Works, alongside other health professionals aim, to educate and facilitate pain management skills for those in persistent pain. This may include the following:
Gradually increase activity levels
Facilitate change in behaviour
Transfer new behaviour to everyday life and work
Take active responsibility for managing pain
Relapse planning
Education regarding pacing of activity
Graded exposure to tasks
Teaching general life skills (for example, sleep issues, task simplification techniques, energy conservation and basic ergonomics in every day life)
Encouragement to return to normal activity and appropriate goal setting
Relaxation techniques
Providing consistent information
Aims of a physical activation programme:
Provide individually created activity programmes pertinent to the individuals needs to increase their level of activity/preparation for return to work.
Reverse the effects of physical deconditioning
Challenge and reduce the patients fears of activity
Graded exposure to tasks; evidence of fear exacerbating pain state.
Minimise physical impairment and optimise function
Provide a safe approach towards gradual increase in activity - pacing skills
Encourage active management of the claimants in increasing their functional levels, to include self exercising
Address: Posture/Body Mechanics/Ergonomics
Setting realistic rehabilitation goals
Promote positive effects of exercise
Incorporate the recommendations from other health professionals and where necessary conduct joint sessions
Monitoring activity levels
Maintenance of pain management skills