ESCAPE-pain

We partner with the Health Innovation Network (HIN) to deliver ESCAPE-pain. This award-winning, evidence-based group rehabilitation programme for people with chronic joint pain integrates educational self-management and coping strategies with an exercise regimen individualised for each participant.

ESCAPE, an acronym for Enabling Self-Management and Coping with Arthritic Pain using Exercise, was developed by Professor Mike Hurley at St George’s University of London and Kingston University to help people with knee, hip and back pain. In 2020 it was named Musculoskeletal Initiative of the Year by Health Service Journal. Mike Hurley.

The programme is estimated to have helped over 20 million people suffering from joint pain and has saved the NHS tens of millions of pounds. With waiting lists growing ever longer, the programme provides many patients, with little chance of treatment in the near future, with an alternative to surgery that enables them to get their lives back, socially and emotionally. The success of the programme owes much to its community focus, with support provided in local community and leisure centres, rather than traditional care settings.

ORUK impressed us with their enthusiasm and shared vision of expanding this programme to involve as many people as possible. They have been highly supportive, whilst giving us the freedom to sustain and expand what has proven to be a highly effective programme.