Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach from Coursera

Chronic pain is at epidemic levels and has become the highest-cost condition in health care. This course uses evidence-based science with creative and experiential learning to better understand chronic pain conditions and how they can be prevented through self-management in our cognitive, behavioral, physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and environmental realms.

The goal of this course is to blend creative, experiential, and evidence-based teaching strategies to help participants understand chronic pain conditions and how a human systems approach can be applied to self-management strategies to reduce risk factors, enhance protective factors, and prevent chronic pain. There are four major objectives to the course;

1. Describe the prevalence, personal impact, and health care dilemma associated with chronic pain.

2. Recognize the clinical characteristics and underlying etiology of several common pain conditions and the peripheral, central, and genetic mechanisms of chronic pain

3. Based on the literature associated with risk and protective factors in the seven realms of our lives, learn specific strategies in each realm that can be employed daily to prevent chronic pain and enhance wellness.

4. Appreciate the value of a human systems approach to health care and how it can provide a basis for integrative, interdisciplinary, and individualized care to preventing pain and enhancing wellness.

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT

Health Care Professionals

Health care professionals who participate in this CE activity may submit this certificate statement of participation to their appropriate accrediting organizations or state boards for consideration of credit. The participant is responsible for determining whether this activity meets the requirements for acceptable continuing education. Email your Coursera certificate statement of completion to your appropriate organization.

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to the Course (Week 1)

In this first module, we will introduce you to the course and present an overview of the topics to be discussed and format of the course. We will also present information about receiving Continuing Education, joining the International Myopain Society, and supporting the Campaign for Preventing Chronic Pain

The Problem of Chronic Pain (Week 2)

Common Pain Conditions and their Mechanisms (Week 3)

Common Pain Conditions and their Mechanisms (Week 4)

Common Pain Conditions and their Mechanisms (Week 5)

Risk and Protective Factors in the Seven Realms (Week 6)

Risk and Protective Factors in the Seven Realms (Week 7)

Risk and Protective Factors in the Seven Realms (Week 8)

Risk and Protective Factors in the Seven Realms (Week 9)

Implementing Transformative Care (Week 10)

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Emphasizes the prevention of chronic pain through self-management strategies

Taught by Dr. James Fricton, DDS, MS, a recognized expert in pain management

Covers risk and protective factors in various aspects of life, providing a comprehensive approach to pain management

Utilizes creative and experiential learning methods to enhance understanding

Provides continuing education credits for health care professionals

Requires no prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide audience

Reviews summary

Integrative management of chronic pain

Learners say this course is well-received and highly practical for both healthcare professionals and individuals with chronic pain. According to students, it thoroughly explores the causes, management strategies, and transformative approaches to chronic pain. The course emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates traditional medicine with alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications based on the Human Systems Approach.

Features presentations from a team of experts in the field of chronic pain management

"An interesting and well organized seminar about the relatively novel idea of holistic patient-centered approach for chronic pain management."

"All the speakers are experts in this topic, and I had previously read a lot of research papers published by them, so this is another advantage of this course for me."

Covers a wide range of topics related to chronic pain, including its causes, assessment, and management

"A very thorough discourse. All aspects have been covered."

"It's either a good start or a good addition to other efforts to learn about the topic and I'd definitely recommend to give this a try."

Emphasizes a holistic approach that integrates traditional medicine with alternative therapies and lifestyle modifications

"Holistic and natural approaches to medicine and chronic pain often exist separately from medical approaches."

"It's not all you might want to know about pain, but it's either a good start or a good addition to other efforts to learn about the topic and I'd definitely recommend to give this a try."

Offers practical strategies and tools for managing chronic pain, both for healthcare professionals and individuals

"For the general public, I think you can probably pick and choose as some subjects may not be relevant to you (ie, the rather beefy fibro section if you have headaches, if the pain mechanism/science feels a bit too full on, etc)."

"It has helped me to relate better to friends and acquaintance who do have chronic pain."

"This course is very professional and focused, professional doctors, a lot of information and valuable details."

Some learners have expressed concerns about the inclusion of outdated material in the course

"Highly outdated material on posture and myofascial pain."

"This course needs some upkeep."

"The course is very interesting. I really like the philosophy about health that is transmitted over the different parts of the course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach with these activities:

Form a study group with other students

Show steps

Engage in active learning, clarify concepts, and strengthen understanding through peer interactions.

Browse courses on Collaboration

Show steps

Identify other students taking the course who are willing to form a study group
Establish regular meeting times and locations
Review course materials together, discuss key concepts, and solve problems

Explore online resources on chronic pain

Show steps

Broaden knowledge about chronic pain and discover additional resources for support and information.

Browse courses on Chronic Pain

Show steps

Search for reputable websites and organizations dedicated to chronic pain
Review articles, blogs, and videos on various aspects of chronic pain
Explore support groups, forums, and online communities

Read the textbook

Show steps

Become familiar with the main concepts covered in the course.

View Wall & Melzack's Textbook of Pain: Expert... on Amazon

Show steps

Acquire a copy of the textbook
Read each chapter in order
Take notes on key concepts (optional)
Complete any practice questions or assignments (optional)

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Create a pain journal

Show steps

Monitor and track pain levels to identify patterns and improve self-awareness.

Browse courses on Pain Management

Show steps

Decide on the format of the journal (e.g., physical notebook, app)
Establish a regular schedule for recording pain levels
Include details about pain intensity, location, duration, and triggers
Review the journal regularly and make adjustments as needed (optional)

Participate in a chronic pain awareness event

Show steps

Raise awareness about chronic pain, connect with others, and contribute to the broader community.

Browse courses on Chronic Pain

Show steps

Identify local or national events focused on chronic pain awareness
Register to participate as an individual or as part of a team
Attend the event, engage with attendees, and share personal experiences (optional)

Develop a self-management plan for chronic pain

Show steps

Apply the concepts learned in the course to create a personalized plan for managing chronic pain.

Browse courses on Self-Management

Show steps

Assess current pain levels, triggers, and coping mechanisms
Research evidence-based strategies for managing chronic pain
Develop a comprehensive plan that includes physical, emotional, and lifestyle interventions
Implement the plan and monitor progress

Volunteer at a pain clinic or support group

Show steps

Gain practical experience, enhance communication skills, and develop empathy for those living with chronic pain.

Browse courses on Pain Management

Show steps

Research pain clinics or support groups in the area
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
Attend training sessions and follow established protocols
Provide assistance and support to patients or group members

Career center

Learners who complete Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to regain their independence and improve their quality of life. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for occupational therapists as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective interventions to prevent it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of hospitals and other healthcare facilities. They ensure that these facilities run smoothly and efficiently, and that patients receive the best possible care. An understanding of chronic pain can be a helpful asset for healthcare administrators. This knowledge can help them make informed decisions about how to allocate resources and how to improve patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Dietitian

Dietitians provide dietary advice to individuals and groups. They can also work in healthcare settings to help patients manage their weight and improve their overall health. Dietitians may find Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach useful for understanding the role of nutrition in chronic pain prevention and management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Dietitian

Chiropractor

Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be particularly useful for chiropractors. This course can help chiropractors understand the underlying etiology of chronic pain and develop effective treatment plans for their patients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor

Pain Management Nurse

Pain management nurses care for patients with acute or chronic pain. They work with patients to develop and implement pain management plans and provide support and education. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for nurses in this field as it can help them understand the different types of chronic pain, the latest treatment options, and how to provide effective patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pain Management Nurse

Physician Assistant

Physician assistants diagnose and treat patients under the supervision of a physician. They can work in a variety of settings, including primary care, emergency medicine, and surgery. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for physician assistants as it can help them understand the different types of chronic pain, the latest treatment options, and how to provide effective patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists help people with disabilities or injuries regain their mobility and function. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for physical therapists as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective interventions to prevent it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physical Therapist

Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications to patients and provide information about how to use them safely. They can also work with patients to manage their chronic pain medication. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be helpful for pharmacists as it can help them understand the different types of chronic pain, the latest treatment options, and how to provide effective patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacist

Psychologist

Psychologists assess and treat mental health issues. They can also work with people who are experiencing chronic pain. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach may be useful for psychologists as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective interventions to prevent it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist

Social Worker

Social workers help people cope with difficult life situations, such as chronic pain. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for social workers as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to provide effective support to their clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses provide care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for registered nurses as it can help them understand the different types of chronic pain, the latest treatment options, and how to provide effective patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse

Yoga Instructor

Yoga instructors teach yoga classes to help people improve their physical and mental health. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for yoga instructors as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective yoga practices to help their students prevent or manage it.

See salaries and explore the career path for Yoga Instructor

Massage Therapist

Massage therapists use massage to relieve pain and promote relaxation. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for massage therapists as it can help them understand the different causes of chronic pain and how to develop effective treatment plans for their clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Massage Therapist

Health Coach

Health coaches help people make healthy lifestyle changes. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for health coaches as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective interventions to help their clients prevent it. Additionally, this course can help health coaches understand how to work with clients who are experiencing chronic pain to help them manage their condition and improve their overall health.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Coach

Athletic Trainer

Athletic trainers prevent and treat injuries in athletes. Preventing Chronic Pain: A Human Systems Approach can be useful for athletic trainers as it can help them understand the different factors that can contribute to chronic pain and how to develop effective interventions to prevent it. Additionally, this course can help athletic trainers understand how to work with athletes who are experiencing chronic pain to help them manage their condition and return to play.

See salaries and explore the career path for Athletic Trainer