Chronic pain

Incidence:

According to Fayaz (2016) estimates of the incidence of chronic pain range from 35.0% to 51.3% of the UK population with the prevalence higher amongst women and increasing with age. Estimates suggest that 14.3% of individuals between the ages of 18 -25 experience chronic pain.

Characteristics:

Chronic pain can be a symptom of a wide variety of impairments ranging from musculoskeletal disorders to migraine. Chronic pain can also be a condition in itself, for example the NHS states that fibromyalgia, a disorder that causes pain through an individual’s body, is ‘thought to be related to abnormal levels of certain chemicals in the brain and changes in the way the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves) processes pain messages carried around the body.’[1]

Impact on teaching and learning:

Individuals with chronic pain may find it difficult to sit still for extended periods of time; they may need to leave a class at short notice to move around. They may be short-tempered and experiencing the side effects of pain medication, which can include sleepiness, gastrointestinal problems and poor concentration. There may also be periods when they cannot attend classes. Having chronic pain is extremely tiring and psychological demanding. Chronic pain can vary in intensity and so students can have good days and bad days.

Impact on assessment

Individuals with chronic pain may find it difficult to complete timed assessments because they cannot guarantee that they will be well on a particular day or because sitting at a desk or computer for an extended period of time is too painful. It is possible that with rest breaks factored in they can complete timed assessments, but they might need to be provided with alternative assessments.

Resource requirements/ accommodations

Individuals with chronic pain may need ergonomic seating in classes and the opportunity to leave the room for short breaks. They may also benefit from a timetable that has classes spread across the week rather than being concentrated into a few days. As there are likely to be times when they cannot attend classes recordings of classes and a sympathetic approach to attendance requirements are likely to help.

 

 

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References

[1] NHS. Overview – Fibromyalgia https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibromyalgia/ accessed on 05/02/2019