If you’re living with non-cancer related pain that won’t go away, you may benefit from a chronic pain management class, hosted by SIU School of Medicine. Classes meet twice a month on Tuesdays and Thursdays for 90 minutes.
Health care professionals lead each class through group discussion, activities and educational videos. The class covers pain management techniques that can increase your or your loved one’s ability to do daily activities longer and with less pain.
Not sure if the class is right for you? Class organizer Carrie Vogler shares more about the class:
Healthy Dose: What is chronic pain? Who will this class help?
Carrie Vogler: Chronic pain is any pain that lasts six months or longer and ranges from joint pain and back pain to headaches and pain caused by previous injuries. This class could be right for you if you have chronic pain that is not caused by cancer and you would like to learn more about pain and options to control your pain.
HD: What’s a class typically like?
CV: Each class is made up of 3 – 10 participants. At the beginning of the class, the group will watch a short educational video, followed by a group discussion. Class members will have the opportunity to talk about their chronic pain battle, share their coping methods and ask for advice from health care professionals. We’ll also serve snacks and refreshments. We typically hold four unique sessions twice a month at either 10 am or 1 pm.
HD: What can I learn from this class that I couldn’t learn from my doctor or find online?
CV: Unfortunately, a lot of online information isn’t accurate. This is a free class led by a health care professional, and it gives you a chance to share stories and experiences with chronic pain and learn new coping methods from peers.  The information you learn may help you better understand your pain, your medicines and how to discuss these concerns with your doctor.
HD: How can I learn more about this class?
CV: If you would like to learn more or sign up for the free class, please call 217-545-5581 and leave a voicemail, or email siupainclass@siumed.edu. We will return your call or email within two business days.
HD: What else should I know about this opportunity?
CV: Participants also have an option to partake in a study that will determine whether classes are helping patients achieve better pain control. Eligible patients will receive $5 compensation at the end of each class. Please note: You do NOT have to be enrolled in the study to take part in the classes.