Mr. Jones has chronic back pain. He cannot sleep, bend or stand for long periods of time because of the pain. He cannot lose weight because the pain keeps him from exercising.
Jones is a case study in a publication by a University of Missouri-Columbia occupational therapy professor to show that chronic pain can be treated by more than just a pill.
Some of the pain medications had side effects that made it difficult for Jones to perform his job. Occupational therapy intervened with acupressure, modifications for performing daily activities and adaptive devices, such as a long handle reacher that allowed him to put on socks without bending over.
Within one month, Jones was able to get through the day with improved performance, better sleep and less pain medication. He also was taught how to do modified exercises, yoga and use lumbar support while driving and sleeping.
“It is important to get patients who are inactive because of pain involved in purposeful activities; it also helps reduce the perception of pain,” said Guy McCormack, chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science in the MU School of Health Professions.
Modifications, such as teaching better body mechanics, finding ways to simplify daily activities and use of assistive devices are all important ways to help with chronic pain. Relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, imagery and visualization can all help with how patients perceive pain.