The pain management programme (PMP) team at Newcastle Hospitals work with people who have persistent pain to help them to get the most out of their lives.
The title “psychology service” might make you suspect “oh, so they think it’s all in my head” but that’s not the case.
The team will assess you and tailor treatment for your individual needs. They’ll offer help including activity management, goal-setting, exercise and education. They’ll also help you to manage worry, anxiety, stress and low mood.
Clinics and group sessions are held at venues across the city, including:
• Elswick Health Centre, Elswick
• Molineux Street NHS Centre, Byker
• Atkinson Road Clinic, Benwell
For more information about the pain management psychology service, please talk to your rheumatology team or click here.
So how do you access this service?
There is an organisation called the Tyneside Integrated Musculoskeletal Service and the good news is that you can self-refer via their website.
However, it’s not very simple to find out how. There is a section on their website titled Inflammatory arthritis which has lots of useful links for information and self-care, but there’s no link for self-referral here.
To find a self-referral link, click on one of the sections such as Persistent pain and lo and behold, there is a self-referral button.
Arthur’s Place links
My life-enhancing visit to the pain clinic
Chronic pain and sex
The benefits of physiotherapy
The benefits of occupational therapy
Wellness Kit – Start Living Again