3 minute read
Mending me
Lesley O’Hara has lived with arthritis since the age of 27, enduring multiple operations and chronic pain. Shortly after a knee replacement operation, she began to experience severe hip pain and an x-ray revealed arthritis in both hips.
Resignedly Lesley, now 67, thought this was just another pain she had to learn to cope with.
Invited to a musculoskeletal community appointment day, a Mersey Care community initiative to help those with joint and muscle pain, Lesley was assessed and offered support and exercises to manage her pain more effectively.
The team includes physiotherapists, advanced musculoskeletal practitioners, therapy assistants and psychologists.
Stephanie Hewitt, an advanced musculoskeletal practitioner, said, “The beauty about a community appointment day is that patients see many clinicians and community services and receive assessments, treatments and support all in one.”
Physiotherapist Cameron Taylor said, “We gave tips and ways of modifying pain, how to manage at home and general advice on how to live a healthier life.”
Lesley was surprised at how much she learnt. A carer for her sister Jan, who has multiple health issues, she was delighted when at the marketplace style community village she was offered information about support for carers.
“I don’t define myself as a carer,” she said, although she moved in with Jan a few years ago to help her manage medical appointments and support her with day to day needs.
“Jan and I have always been close. She’s had health problems from an early age and I’ve always felt protective of her.”
The sisters enjoy travel and try to go on one cruise a year while Lesley has a passion for fashion design and sewing. She enjoys upcycling clothes, which helps her relax.
“When Jan went into hospital after having a stroke, I was up until three o’clock in the morning sewing – it’s my release.”
Reflecting on the day, Lesley said, “I didn’t know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. Everyone was so helpful and I appreciate the support I was given by the NHS and the Carers Centre. I will continue to prioritise my exercises and improve the strength in my hip.”
Associate Director Integration, Transformation and Partnerships at Mersey Care, Tim McPhee said, “This is the future of the NHS. We need to focus on prevention and help patients manage their whole health and wellbeing.”
Watch the appointment day on BBC North West Tonight here
Keep fit and healthy
An active lifestyle is an essential part of good mental and physical health and wellbeing. Being inactive can lead to health problems including diabetes, obesity and musculoskeletal disorders.
• Gentle walking or cycling
• If you get public transport, get on a stop later or off a stop earlier
• Set regular reminders to stand up and take a one to two minute walk to get water or a cup of tea
• If you drive, park a bit further away from your destination and walk the rest.
Find out more: merseycare. nhs.uk/joint-muscle-pain/ lifestyle-advice
