Behavioral Pain Management

Types of Rehab: Outpatient
Location(s): Orthopedic Institute

The Behavioral Pain Management program at Avera McKennan was developed to meet the needs of individuals with chronic pain. It is an interdisciplinary team approach incorporating pain treatment as well as behavior modification. The Behavioral Pain Management program facilitates the individual's ability to improve function through education, prevention, treatment, and behavior modification.

Medical Director, Myung Cho, M.D., specializes in physical and rehabilitation medicine and pain management. She will provide evaluation and medical management for clients with chronic pain problems in the Behavioral Pain Management program.

Who should be considered for referral to the behavioral program

Individuals experiencing chronic pain who are medically stable, have no evidence of a surgically treatable condition or a debilitating psychiatric disease.

Behavioral Pain Management Program Content

The program consists of treatment as well as behavior modification to enable individuals to deal with ongoing pain and the problems it can cause, and to provide a method for people to gain independence and control. Upon referral, a 5-hour evaluation is done by physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychology and the medical director followed by a team conference to discuss findings and recommendations. If recommended, the program runs Mon.-Fri. from 9:00 to 4:00 for 4 weeks. A modified program may be recommended depending on individual needs.

Services

• Physical therapy evaluation and recommendation for strengthening and general physical conditioning to increase function and decrease pain to include both pool and land therapy
• Occupational therapy to facilitate independence in daily living activities through education in proper body mechanics, pacing and work simplification.
• Psychological and behavioral counseling in group and individual sessions, family counseling, stress management, relaxation training and biofeedback training.
• Evaluation and counseling on medication and nutritional issues.

Follow Up

Patient follow up is provided at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and one year after completion of the pain program or as needed to maintain treatment gains.

Patient and Family Services

Family participation and family group sessions is expected.

Referral Process

Physicians, insurance carriers, employers, case managers and individuals may refer by simply calling 605-322-5149.