REGION– We all experience pain from time to time, from headaches to joint pain. But many people live with ongoing, persistent pain better known as chronic pain. Chronic Pain comes from injuries or conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, nerve damage, injuries, or other conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 11% – 40% of the U.S. adult population has chronic pain that impacts their physical and mental health and is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care.
Another great way to reduce pain is taking the Personal Action Towards Health (PATH) Chronic Pain Workshop. This workshop is an evidence-based program developed at Stanford University, that provides participants with information and strategies for reducing and managing pain and has been proven to decrease pain, improve mental health, and increase confidence in one’s ability to manage pain.
This workshop is for adults of all ages, spouses, and caregivers of someone who is suffering from chronic pain. It is led by trained leaders, who focus on helping participants feel better, have more control, and do the things they want to do. Nicole Wethington, MSU Extension Health Educator, and PATH leader stated “This program is fantastic for anyone who experiences chronic pain. Participants who complete the program share that they are better able to manage their pain in their daily lives, which can have a profound impact on their quality of life.”
The workshops meet for two and a half hours once a week for six consecutive weeks. Classes will begin on Mon., Feb. 19, from 1 -3:30 p.m. online via Zoom. There is no cost to attend, class size is limited so to reserve your seat for the class, contact Brooke Mainville at mainvilleb@nemcsa.org or 989.358.4616.
Chronic Pain PATH is sponsored by the Older Americans Act, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports (ACLS), and the Region 9 Area Agency on Aging a division of Northeast Michigan Community Service Agency (NEMCSA). To find out more information regarding NEMCSA’s programs and services, visit www.nemcsa.org.
