FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to some of the most common questions about Harrogate Pain Clinic
How is your approach different from other pain management services?
We combine psychological and physiotherapy techniques based on current pain science research. Unlike traditional interventions that focus solely on mitigating physical symptoms through medication or surgery, our work aims to holistically address the physical, social, psychological aspects of chronic pain. Our interdisciplinary team works together to provide a personalised approach that helps you develop practical strategies for managing pain and improving your quality of life.
Is there scientific evidence supporting your treatment methods?
Yes– plenty. Our approach is grounded in current pain management research and National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guidelines. Our mixture of group work and individual one-to-one consulting sessions is widely used by the NHS throughout England, Wales and Scotland, and our clinicians have experience of leading similar programs for the NHS. We continuously update our methods based on the most recent scientific literature from leading pain institutions, including national and international universities and pain management centres.
Who can benefit from your programme?
Our service is designed for adults experiencing any form of chronic musculoskeletal pain (back, head/migraine, joint, abdominal, neuropathic (nerve), post-injury/operative, fibromyalgia, etc).
What qualifications do your therapists have?
Our team includes: accredited physiotherapists, psychologists, and occupational therapists (registered with the Health and Care Professions Council). Our NHS-trained clinicians have extensive experience in chronic pain treatment and regularly undergo professional development and specialised training in the management of chronic pain.
Do you accept insurance?
We’re currently working on securing insurance partnerships. At present, patients may be able to claim through:
Private health insurance
Employee health schemes
Some workplace wellness programmes
We recommend checking with your specific insurance provider (please contact us if you have any questions).
Can I be referred by my GP?
Yes, we work with GPs throughout the Harrogate area and beyond, and are happy to accept referrals from any practitioners throughout England and Wales.
How long does the programme take, and what results can I expect?
Our standard programme is 4 weeks. Most patients report experiencing an improved quality of life within the first few weeks, and long-term benefits to their wellbeing that can last a lifetime. While our sessions won’t eliminate your pain, most participants report:
- Improved pain management skills
- Increased daily functioning and activity
- Enhanced quality of life across physical, social, professional, and psychological domains.
Are there any medical conditions that would prevent me from joining?
We assess each individual’s suitability for pain management during the initial consultation. Potential contraindications might include:
- Acute, unmanaged medical or mental health conditions
- Current mental health crises
- Conditions requiring immediate medical intervention
- Other current difficulties that would inhibit effective treatment (e.g. addiction)
How do I know if this is right for me?
We offer a free 30-minute initial phone or video consultation to:
Discuss your specific pain experience
Explain our approach
Answer any questions
Help you determine if our programme matches your needs
There’s no obligation to proceed after this consultation.
Will being in a group with other chronic pain sufferers mean just hearing lots of other people’s sad stories?
No. Our rehabilitation programme is an evidence based, structured approach that has been shown to move people through a process of achieving their goals. While most people quickly feel comfortable enough to share their personal stories with each other, that is not the aim of our rehab approach.
Are your facilities accessible?
Our session are all held in a convenient location in central Harrogate. Our facilities are fully wheelchair accessible. Our staff are also able to help with a range of mobility issues (these can be discussed during the initial free consultation)
Group sessions sound intimidating. Are they right for me?
Many people find their first group session a little daunting. However, our experienced clinicians have many years of experience ensuring the group is a safe and welcoming space for everyone. The group is set up around ground rules that ensure everyone is treated with respect and acceptance.
People who take part in group therapy report that the shared experience of rehabilitation plays a hugely positive role in normalising their experience, alleviating the isolation caused by chronic pain, and developing effective pain management strategies. Most people taking part in the sessions will also be from the local area, and many people find that these sessions lead to new and lasting friendships.
Won’t being in a group with other chronic pain suffers just mean hearing lots of other people’s sad stories?
No. Our rehabilitation programme is an evidence based, structured approach that has been shown to move people through a process of claiming back their lives. While most people quickly feel safe and comfortable enough to share their personal stories in the group, that is not the focus of our group approach, which is instead on understanding methods for managing chronic pain.
How can I prepare for my first session?
Once you have had your initial free consultation and chosen a treatment plan, we will send you a comprehensive introductory booklet so that you know exactly what to expect. This includes detail on what to wear on the day and links to additional background reading material.
I have further questions, how do I get in touch?
Please use the Contact Us tab of this website or email us at: info@harrogatepainclinic.com