Local help for muscle and joint pain as Escape-pain programme comes to Stoke-on-Trent

People living with muscle and joint pain in Stoke-on-Trent will soon benefit from a new programme being introduced at leisure centres across the city.

The Enabling Self-management and Coping with Arthritic Pain using Exercise programme (ESCAPE-pain) is a six-week course that combines education and tailored exercise to help participants manage pain, become more active and regain their quality of life. 

It is a group-based rehabilitation programme designed to help those dealing with knee and hip pain and other muscular issues.

Musculoskeletal pain is the second most frequent reason for GP visits in the UK, forming 20 to 30 per cent of all consultations.  

Sessions will begin in September at the Wallace Centre, Abbey Hulton; Fenton Manor Sports Complex and Dimensions Leisure Centre, Burslem. 

The scheme builds on the city’s existing offer, which already includes the GoodBoost programme at Dimensions. People who complete ESCAPE-pain will be able to continue their progress through GoodBoost, helping them to stay active and manage their condition in the long term.  

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I’m pleased that our leisure services are expanding their support for residents living with muscle and joint pain by adding the ESCAPE-pain sessions to their programme. 

“Together with the GoodBoost programme, we are continuing our commitment to helping residents improve their health by managing pain that can have a huge impact on people’s daily lives. I encourage anyone that’s struggling with symptoms to check it out and give it a go if they’re eligible.”

To find out more about eligibility and how to book sessions, visit the Active Stoke website or download the app: https://activestoke.co.uk/news/article/40/escape-pain-programme  

To learn more about the ESCAPE-pain programme, visit their website: https://escape-pain.org/