Why It Matters
Chronic back pain affects 1 out of every 10 Americans. The men and women who suffer from this condition often feel helpless and isolated, which can actually aggravate their symptoms1. The simple act of connecting with a sympathetic person, who truly understands what they’re going through, can be extremely beneficial. Research suggests that staying positive and receiving emotional support can accelerate recovery from surgery.
Energized, passionate, and united by a common challenge, The Better Way Back is a true community. It is also an information and support resource for patients struggling with the devastating effects of chronic back and leg pain.
Reference 1The Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Pain Rehabilitation Center Program Guide 2 Lorig Kate, RN, DrPH et al Living a healthy life with chronic conditions Bull Publishing 2007
Our Ambassadors, who have recovered from minimally disruptive spine surgery, are extremely helpful to patients. For example, some patients may be too shy or embarrassed to ask their surgeon important questions about their surgery and recovery. But those same patients may feel comfortable discussing the issues with a Patient Ambassador who has gone through a similar experience.
Ambassadors can share their positive, personal stories of recovery directly with patients. They can also empathize, offer encouragement, and make valuable suggestions that the practice staff may not have thought of, such as how to rearrange the home for the recovery period.
How important is a strong support community for chronic pain sufferers? Listen to what this Patient Ambassador for The Better Way Back® has to say about sharing experiences, staying positive, encouraging others, and spreading the word about effective treatments.
