ESCAPE-Pain Rehabilitation Programme

ESCAPE-Pain Rehabilitation Programme

ESCAPE-Pain (Enabling Self-management and Coping with Arthritic Pain using Exercise) is a free, evidence-based rehabilitation programme for people living with long-term knee or hip arthritis.

The programme is delivered by Healthworks in partnership with Tyneside Integrated Musculoskeletal Services (TIMS) and is available in both Newcastle and Gateshead.

It  runs over 6 weeks, with two sessions each week.

Each session includes:

  • 45 minutes of structured exercise, tailored to support joint health, strength and mobility
  • 15 minutes of education, focused on practical lifestyle changes and self-management

 


ESCAPE-Pain Could be Suitable for You if:

You have Long-term knee and/or hip arthritis, or, you have chronic back pain (through a specific ESCAPE-Pain Back programme)

It could help you:

  • Reduce pain and stiffness
  • Improve movement and confidence
  • Stay active safely
  • Manage arthritis day-to-day
  • Better understand your condition
  • Learn ways to manage pain and symptoms
  • Build confidence in staying active
  • Improve your quality of life

 

How to Access ESCAPE-Pain

You can self-refer directly via TIMS:

  1. Visit the TIMS website

  2. Scroll to the bottom of the page

  3. Click on ‘Self-referral tool’

  4. TIMS will contact you for an assessment

  5. If eligible, you will be allocated to your next local programme


 

Where Healthworks delivers ESCAPE-Pain

Healthworks currently delivers ESCAPE-Pain at:

  • Health Resource Centre, Benwell, NE4 8BE

  • East End Pool, Byker, NE6 1AL

  • Barmoor Hub, Ryton, NE40 3AG

  • Felling Community Centre, Gateshead, NE10 0NF

Session days and times will be confirmed once you are referred.

Visit our What’s On page for details of Healthworks weekly activities.


Frequently Asked Questions about ESCAPE-Pain

Do I need a referral from a health professional?

No you can self-refer via this online tool: Escape Pain – NHS TIMS

Is ESCAPE-Pain suitable if I’ve never exercised before?

Yes ESCAPE-Pain is suitable for any level of fitness. The specialist instructor will help you tailor the exercises to suit your fitness and abilities.

What should I wear?

You can wear anything comfortable, and we recommend trainers or comfortable-fitting flat shoes.

Can I attend if I’m waiting for surgery?

Yes you can, and improving your fitness and strength prior to surgery may help your recovery.

Where can I find out more about the programme?

You can find out more about ESCAPE-pain here.

How do I get involved?

Visit the Tyneside Integrated Musculoskeletal Service (TIMS) website to refer yourself to ESCAPE-Pain:

 


 

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