Michael Collins My name is Mick and I developed chronic pain due to a series of episodes of slipped discs in my lower back. The pain is usually confined to my lower back, but can extend to both arms, legs, neck, and shoulders, as well as pins and needles in my hands and feet. I also suffer from anxiety and occasionally, panic attacks.

My name is Mick and I developed chronic pain due to a series of episodes of slipped discs in my lower back. The pain is usually confined to my lower back, but can extend to both arms, legs, neck, and shoulders, as well as pins and needles in my hands and feet. I also suffer from anxiety and occasionally, panic attacks.

Since being at Input, I have managed my pain a lot better. I have cut my medication down to three paracetamol a day. I no longer take diazepam. I have a new career as a support worker with Mental Health service users. This can cause considerable emotional stress and can be quite physically active, but I am able to manage. I have moved to a bungalow with front and back gardens and I do some DIY and light gardening. I now have a pet dog, which helps immensely with my mood and makes me more physically active. I now have a disabled parking badge (blue badge), thanks to written support statements from staff at Input. This allows me to park during the working day and effectively makes it possible for me to do my job, as I often visit many places in one day.

The improvements I’ve made since attending Input are as follows:

I manage my pain every minute of every day. I manage my pain using thoughts and feelings and stretching. I’ve learnt to prepare myself psychologically before strenuous physical activity or a busy day. My activity levels have increased and I am more mobile and flexible. I have been on long haul flights and have done some short hikes while on holiday. I have gone raving. I perform more light exercise (mainly walking) and some light weight-lifting, both of which seem to reduce my pain. Flare ups, where I am unable to move or get out of bed, are almost a thing of the past.

The most useful things I’ve learnt at Input are as follows: that the pain cannot get any worse, the importance of stretching and pacing, how to focus on positive things, and relaxation techniques. I still have anxiety and pain, however, if I hadn’t gone to Input, I would not have accomplished many of the things that I have over the past two years. Most importantly, I would not have continued in full time work, due to the side effects of my previous medication and due to fear that I was doing myself further damage.

13.Nov.10

Fundraising Members Evening

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