One in three Americans live with aches and pains. Come learn how to cope with the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of pain, including learning valuable techniques to deal with pain, stress, and tiredness.

Developed by McGill University and Memorial University in Newfoundland in collaboration with Stanford University in California, the Chronic Pain Self-Management Program is a 6 week, evidence based, workshop that helps people who are experiencing a wide range of chronic pain conditions. Practical tools and information are shared to help develop coping skills, building participants confidence and motivation to better manage their symptoms and the daily challenges of living with chronic pain. The workshop does not conflict with other programs or treatment and is designed to enhance regular treatment. No referral is needed.

Who should attend the workshop?

Adults experiencing chronic pain such as:

Neck, shoulder, and back pain
Chronic pain syndrome
Repetitive Stress Injury
Muscular pain from Multiple Sclerosis or other neuromuscular pain
Post trauma pain from motor vehicle accidents and falls
Post-surgical pain that lasts beyond 6 months
Post stroke pain
Persistent headaches
Pain related to vascular insufficiency
Diabetes and neuropathy
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Neuropathic pain and neuralgias

Family members, friends, and/or caregivers are welcome to attend. The program is offered at no cost to everyone in the community. While we would love you to be a Y Member, YMCA Membership is not required.

Participants meet once a week for 2.5 hours over 6 weeks. The workshop is led by two trained facilitators. Participants are encouraged to take an active role by setting weekly goals and sharing information about their progress in meeting the goals.

Participants learn how to deal with frustration, fatigue, isolation, and poor sleep; learn how to exercise to maintain and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance; learn how to make healthier food choices; learn how to communicate with their health care team and family members; learn how to pace activity and rest; and learn how to evaluate treatments.

For more information call the YMCA at 724.438.2584 and ask for Pam. You must be at least 18 years of age, have experienced pain for at least three months, and be cancer free to participate.

This programming is made possible by the generous, annual sponsorship of the Area Agency on Aging.