Outcome-oriented, function-based therapies and techniques to support individuals suffering from chronic or persistent pain.
Managing pain, improving function
Typically defined as pain from an injury or illness lasting far longer than expected, chronic pain interferes with daily activity and can trigger anxiety and depression.
At Sheltering Arms Institute, our physical therapists work with physicians and clinicians to determine the underlying causes of chronic pain and develop individualized care plans to reduce pain and achieve optimal outcomes.
Knowledgeable, empathetic, convenient
At Sheltering Arms Institute, our approach to chronic or persistent pain therapy is rooted in both clinical expertise and truly understanding our patients’ experiences, thoughts, and feelings. We develop meaningful patient relationships to support rehabilitation and recovery.
Our outpatient clinics are conveniently located throughout Richmond and Central Virginia.
Patients with chronic or persistent pain receive comprehensive treatment delivered by a team of true experts, including physical, occupational, and speech therapists, psychologists, physicians, and case managers.
Physical therapists collaborate with patients who are experiencing chronic or persistent pain to develop function-based, goal-specific exercises to support optimal recoveries.
In addition to standard therapies, Sheltering Arms Institute provides patients with chronic or persistent pain with a variety of complementary interventions, including aquatic therapy, dry needling, and pain neuroscience education.
From virtual reality programs to the latest exercise and balance equipment, patients with chronic or persistent pain have access to a range of innovative therapy technology at Sheltering Arms Institute.
A number of Sheltering Arms Institute clinicians are trained in fear avoidance behaviors and safe movement strategies to support the recovery of patients with chronic or persistent pain.
I have been in and out of physical therapy since I was 14, about half of my life now. This has been a completely different physical therapy experience; it has been focused on me functioning in spite of the pain and doing things to manage the pain.
Physical therapy treats chronic or persistent pain stemming from a wide range of conditions, illnesses, and traumas.
When working with people who have been experiencing persistent pain, it’s really important to have a multidisciplinary team of clinicians using the best evidence to create individualized treatment plans. Not only do we offer that at the Sheltering Arms Institute, but we also have clinicians who are empathetic, value communication, and provide patient-centered care, which I believe makes a big difference in improving functional outcomes and quality of life.
Understanding chronic or persistent pain therapy
At Sheltering Arms Institute, chronic or persistent pain therapy is individualized and administered by trained clinicians. Our multidisciplinary team delivers a holistic approach and focuses on empathetic listening, motivational interviewing, and the creation of true therapeutic alliances.
All therapy plans for patients with chronic or persistent pain are individualized. Our multidisciplinary team develops intricate care plans to support individual goals and desired outcomes, however, most patients with chronic or persistent pain can expect between 6-8 weeks of therapy.
Before any therapy begins, patients and their care teams set both short- and long-term function-based goals. Going beyond simply “reducing pain,” function-based goals such as wanting to pick up and hug grandchildren or walking around the neighborhood allow Sheltering Arms Institute therapists to create individually designed care plans.
We acknowledge that medication has a role in chronic pain management and our multidisciplinary team makes it a point to understand all medications that a patient suffering from chronic or persistent pain is currently taking or has taken recently. Sheltering Arms Institute does not prescribe or recommend medications. Patients should consult their physicians in regard to medication.
At Sheltering Arms Institute, we encourage family members, caregivers, and loved ones to take an active role in a patient’s recovery. Particularly with chronic or persistent pain, support, encouragement, and validation from family members plays a pivotal role in recovery.
While every care plan is individually designed, chronic or persistent pain rehab at Sheltering Arms Institute is rooted in a holistic approach and typically includes a mix of traditional therapeutic exercises and strength training as well as function-based movements, nutrition and sleep education, and stress and anxiety management.
Start your Journey
Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.
