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For Immediate Release
August 16, 2005
Mercy Offers Chronic Pain Support Group
Oklahoma City—Mercy Health Center offers a
unique chronic pain support group for patients, families and friends who
have a loved one suffering with chronic pain.
The 14-week class—every Thursday from September 8 to
December 15—follows a program outlined in the book, Managing Pain Before
It Manages You, written by Margaret A. Caudill, MD, PhD. Each chapter
identifies methods participants can learn in order to manage, function
and cope with chronic pain. The group will learn how to understand,
effectively communicate and take control of their pain.
The group also hears from everyone from pharmacists
to nutritionists to physical therapists. “Our pharmacist looks at the
different medications each participant it taking and talks about how
medications can affect pain, by either lessening or increasing pain,”
said Juliane Chainakul, RN, CNS, Mercy pain management coordinator. “A
nutritionist also talks with the group about how what you eat affects
your body and pain level.”
Pain Pals is more than just a program, it’s a
support system. “This group helps people find support in the community,”
said Chainakul. “We see so many people suffering from chronic pain who
need to find different avenues to manage their pain. We started this
support group several years ago and it’s still likely the only one of
it’s kind in the state. It’s really unique to offer something like
this.”
Limited to 15 individuals, the support group will
meet every Thursday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Mercy Conference
Conference. Future sessions will be offered beginning in February. Cost
is $50 per family (includes patient and additional person). Book
purchase is optional. To register, call Mercy Health Direct at
405-752-3600.
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