New programme to help those with painful condition
January 2009
A NEW group programme for patients suffering with a rare condition which causes chronic pain has been launched in south west Essex.
The eight-week course for patients with fibromyalgia is being piloted by NHS South West Essex Community Services at Basildon University Hospital and will soon be available to patients across the Brentwood, Thurrock and Basildon districts.
Although not widely known, fibromyalgia affects between two and 4.5 per cent of British population and can have a devastating impact on people’s lives.
The condition affects muscles, tendons and ligaments, causing pain all over the body and extreme fatigue.
Led by physiotherapists the new programme will support patients to manage their condition and provide advice about symptoms, treatment options and relaxation.
Patients will be referred to the group following assessment by a consultant and physiotherapist.
The hour long sessions will be held every Friday and will include an exercise circuit to increase strength, fitness and flexibility.
Senior physiotherapist for NHS South West Essex Community Services, Claire Rumble, said: “Fibromyalgia is a condition which can have a devastating impact on people’s lives and can affect their relationships, social lives and ability to work.
“Although there is no cure for the condition this programme is designed to help patients to cope with and manage their pain in order to enjoy a better quality of life.
“This group is backed by the local fibromyalgia support group, which encourages sufferers to live full and independent lives.
“If the pilot scheme is a success we hope to run the group programme on a more permanent basis.”
Although anyone can be affected by fibromyalgia, it affects more women than men and usually occurs between the ages of 35 and 60.
There is no cure, but treatments, exercise and medicines can ease the symptoms.
Other symptoms of the condition can include difficulty in swallowing, breathing difficulties, anxiety and bowel and bladder dysfunction.