Chronic pain affects millions of Americans. Most people with chronic pain have tried multiple treatment strategies without relief. Pain can interfere with a person’s ability to work, participate in daily and recreational activities and may affect their relationships with family or friends. Over time people with chronic pain may restrict their activities, which in turn, causes them to become less physically fit to the point that even minor activities result in increased pain.
Physical and occupational therapists at Cleveland Clinic work as part of an interdisciplinary team in the Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program. The Chronic Pain Rehabilitation Program is a medical, physical and psychological rehabilitation program for individuals with chronic pain – combining multiple specialties to deliver individualized treatment plans that include a strong exercise focus, helping patients gain strength, endurance and flexibility. Education is a key component of the program for improving posture and body mechanics so that patients may resume their normal daily activities and regain enjoyment in their life.
