A SUCCESSFUL national programme which helps reduce pain in long-term sufferers of joint pain, giving them a new lease of life, is set to continue in Bromsgrove.

ESCAPE-pain is a rehabilitation programme for people living with osteoarthritis of the knee or hip that integrates educational self-management and coping strategies with an exercise regimen individualised for each participant.

It helps people understand their condition, teaches them simple things they can help themselves with, and takes them through a progressive exercise programme so they learn how to cope with pain better.

After the success of the April sessions, the next six-week, 12-session course is being held once again at BHI Parkside Medical Centre in Bromsgrove starting from June 11, and participants are being urged to grab a place while they can.

Participants are required to attend two sessions per week on Tuesdays at 2.45pm and Thursdays at 2.45pm to get the best out of the course.

Feedback from previous ESCAPE-pain cohorts includes “…some good ideas on how to control and live with pain”, “meeting others with similar pains has lifted my spirits and helped me to think more positively”, and “the group was very friendly and useful.”

Hayley Gwilliam, from Bromsgrove District Council, said: “This programme has been really popular and we’re really pleased we could put on more sessions at BHI Parkside to make the classes more accessible to more people. This programme arms people with self-management strategies and helps them to live a more active life.

"It also relieves strain from the NHS so saves money and resources in the long-term.”

If you want to book your place call Hayley on 01527 881404 or email hayley.gwilliam@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.