ASSESSMENT · THERAPY · ONGOING SUPPORT
Pain assessment & support
Understand the pain. Find a way forward.
Our proposed pain pathway focuses on understanding the cause, improving day-to-day function and exploring physical, psychological and appropriate non-opioid support.
Assessment comes first.
A pain assessment would explore where the pain is, when it started, any injury or previous diagnosis, its effect on movement, work, sleep and mood, and the treatments already tried. Medicines, allergies and relevant medical history are part of that assessment.
Different causes of pain need different care. Persistent pain may involve an underlying condition, changes in the way pain is processed, or both. An examination, tests or specialist advice may be needed before a treatment plan can be agreed.
Movement and
physical support.
Physiotherapy and exercise support may help with movement, strength, confidence and day-to-day function, depending on the cause of pain. The proposed pathway would consider activity adapted to your needs, gradual goals and pacing.
We are exploring referral or signposting routes to qualified physiotherapists and suitable exercise support. First Reach physiotherapy provision and referral arrangements are not yet confirmed.
Support for
persistent pain.
Persistent pain can affect sleep, mood, relationships and confidence. Psychological approaches such as CBT for pain or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can help some people develop coping skills and work towards activities that matter to them.
This does not mean the pain is imagined. These approaches can form part of a broader plan alongside appropriate physical and medical care. Therapy availability and provider arrangements are being developed.
Treatment matched
to the cause.
Non-opioid options depend on the type and cause of pain, your health, current medicines and the balance of benefit and risk. A treatment suitable for one pain condition may be inappropriate for another; even non-prescription medicines can cause harm.
The clinical lead is reviewing appropriate options within the clinic’s protocols. Lower strength does not automatically mean lower risk. This page does not offer a pain medicine menu or promise a prescription.
Review function.
Review progress.
The proposed follow-up would review what matters to you: movement, daily activities, sleep, coping and any treatment side effects. The plan may need adjustment, further assessment or specialist referral.
Coordination with your GP or usual prescriber may be needed for safe care. Review schedules and referral arrangements will be confirmed before this pathway opens.
Clear responsibility.
Personal decisions.
Smiths Medical Group Ltd is responsible for clinical assessment, prescribing decisions and clinical governance. First Reach Digital Ltd manages the website and non-clinical administration. Any prescribed medicines are subject to independent checks by Jayty Ltd through Inspire Pharmacy — Ibstock.
An appointment does not guarantee treatment or a prescription. If online care is unsuitable, further examination, investigation or another service may be needed.
Further reading
Independent information. External links open in a new tab. Availability and suitability depend on each service.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Start with understanding.
Explore the proposed care pathways and current appointment information.