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Resources available for chronic pain sufferers

Chronic pain is a major health care and social problem but one that is frequently misunderstood.

Chronic pain is a major health care and social problem but one that is frequently misunderstood.

During National Pain Awareness Week from Nov. 3 to 9, the Comox Valley Nursing Centre reminds residents there are resources available to help those living with chronic pain.

It is estimated that nearly one-third of B.C. adults suffer from persistent pain, and two to three per cent have severe pain and disability. With an aging population, that figure is expected to increase.

People with severe chronic pain are more likely to be hospitalized and are more likely to suffer from clinical depression. They are also likely to require more medical consultations than people without chronic pain.

Despite this, chronic pain is a problem that remains largely invisible with lack of information among the barriers to optimal pain management.

Comox Valley Nursing Centre delivers Island Health programs and works with community partners to provide support for those living with chronic pain with the goal of educating, empowering and advocating for care.

Examples of the centre’s programs include Good Vibrations Relaxation Therapy, Chronic Pain  Educational Series, Living Well with Chronic Pain Support Group and Super 6 Exercise Program.

For further information, contact the Comox Valley Nursing Centre at 615 10th St. in Courtenay by phoning 250-331-8502 or visiting www.viha.ca/comox_valley_nursing_centre/programs_and_services/chronic_pain.htm.

— Comox Valley Nursing Centre