Work and pain

Living with pain is challenging - making it hard to sleep, work, and enjoy life.

Pain has a purpose.

We often don’t think about how our body works, until something goes wrong with it. However, we know that understanding the way the body is wired (the neurobiology of pain) can help people to have less pain and do more.

It is normal to feel some pain as you start to return to employment. This module will teach you about some strategies you can use to manage pain in the workplace. In this module we will help you to:

Understanding pain and how to navigate it
Learning to work with pain
Your values and belief’s about pain can impact on your recovery

Gain an Understanding

What is your job role? Talk me through your usual day at work
Are you currently working? If not, how long have you been absent for?
If in work, are you on your usual/full duties? How are you coping?

Poor Recovery Expectation

How much longer to you plan to be absent from work?
When do you think you will be fit enough to return to work in some capacity OR
- to full function/duties (give examples based on prior questions)
When do you think you will be fit enough to return to normal activities (give examples based on prior questions)

Fear Avoidance Beliefs

Why are you off work or on restricted duties?
Which part of your job would be difficult for you at the moment?
Which part of your job do you think you can do?

Other Risk Factors to Consider

Job Dissatisfaction
Job stress/strain
Low social support at work
Perception of no available work modifications
Physical demands at work

Mindfulness is essential

An effort to live in the moment without judgment of whether a decision is right, wrong, or how it may affect you in the long-term. Too many people suffer from anxiety in their personal lives which can translate to poor work performance. When you are in a constant state of anxiety over what is to come, you never actually focus on what is right in front of you. It is time to take back the “Now” and become more mindful of the present.

Here are the top 7 proven ways to practice mindfulness at work for a better life and a more productive work experience.

Source: Catherine's Career Corner

Helpful video recourses for understanding, navigating and managing pain

Top 7 ways to practice Mindfulness