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Community & Business

6 March, 2021

Wisk away your chronic pain

THANKS to a local Fast Track Pain Management System, Atherton resident Michelle Duncan left her debilitating pain behind her and has not looked back in over seven years.

By Rhys Thomas

Seven years ago Atherton resident Michelle Duncan woke and could barely walk, now she exercises, walks and does yoga thanks to a localized pain management clinic.
Seven years ago Atherton resident Michelle Duncan woke and could barely walk, now she exercises, walks and does yoga thanks to a localized pain management clinic.

THANKS to a local Fast Track Pain Management System, Atherton resident Michelle Duncan left her debilitating pain behind her and has not looked back in over seven years.

After waking one day with excruciating back pain Michelle was diagnosed with arthritis in her lower spine and joint dysfunction, causing intense nerve pressure and making ordinary life extremely difficult. 

Michelle visited a physio where she was told about her issues, she could not eat, sleep or even walk without incredible discomfort and pain. 

Eventually Michelle’s GP referred her to the Cairns and Hinterlands Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) new Fast Track Pain Management System. 

Michelle said that attending the clinic a year ago was a lifechanging decision. 

“The pain is nowhere as bad as it was,” she said. 

“Going to pain management they have taught me not to fear my pain, and to learn what my body can do. 

“I find it incredible what I am doing now considering I didn’t move for seven years.” 

Now after attending the clinic Michelle does yoga every morning, exercises six days a week, swims and goes for walks, things she never imagined she would be able to do again. 

The Fast Track Pain Management System it is a multidisciplinary pain service that started in June last year, it provides high value, evidence based care close to people’s homes. 

Since starting, the clinic has received 158 referrals nearly 20 referrals a month, double the estimated 8 patients a month referral rate. 

Jay Wittem from CHHHS North Queensland Persistent Pain Service says that chronic pain affects 1 in 5 people and costs the FNQ economy $1.45 billion each year. 

“Chronic pain is common, costly and disabling,” he said.

“For people suffering chronic pain they can feel like they are the only ones fighting this battle. 

“They’re not, there are some very effective pathways to manage pain.” 

The clinics are based in Cairns but with a particular rural and remote focus they are regularly scheduled at the Atherton and Mareeba hospitals. 

If you’re currently living with debilitating chronic pain and would like a referral to the Fast Track Pain Management System talk to your GP.   

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